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''"OPEN ARE THE DOUBLE-DOORS OF THE HORIZON..."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_silvered_future_1|A silvered future 1|Fallen London|}}</ref>
''"OPEN ARE THE DOUBLE-DOORS OF THE HORIZON..."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_silvered_future_1|A silvered future 1|Fallen London|}}</ref>
[[File:Foliageorange.png|alt=Foliage under an orange sky.|thumb|Dense foliage.]]
[[File:Foliageorange.png|alt=Foliage under an orange sky.|thumb|Dense foliage.]]
"The Castle of Forests. An enormous fortress of the [[Fingerkings]], one that more closely resembles a hedge maze than any castle I've seen. It consists of several walls made from knotted trees and vines, which rise into the horizon in a series of concentric circles. At the center of this tower is a citadel. The flora here is quite hostile, I must say, as it bristles with thorns that will split your skin like paper, and certain areas teem with poisonous fruits.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Within_the_Castle_of_Forests|Within the Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}} ''"Vine-hung trees knot together to form walls in ascending circles, narrowing [...] A [...] citadel [...] at the top, [...] with thick thorns and [...] poisoned fruit. It is part castle, part malevolent hedge-maze."''</ref><ref name = "return to castle of forests">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Return_to_the_Castle_of_Forests|Return to the Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}}</ref> A far cry from Tyrant's Gardens indeed."
"The Castle of Forests: an enormous fortress of the [[Fingerkings]], more like a hedge-maze than any castle I've ever seen. Its walls are built of knotted trees and vines, rising into the horizon in concentric circles; at the center is a citadel. The flora here is hostile, bristling with thorns that tear skin like paper, and teeming with poisonous fruit.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Within_the_Castle_of_Forests|Within the Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}} ''"Vine-hung trees knot together to form walls in ascending circles, narrowing [...] A [...] citadel [...] at the top, [...] with thick thorns and [...] poisoned fruit. It is part castle, part malevolent hedge-maze."''</ref><ref name = "return to castle of forests">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Return_to_the_Castle_of_Forests|Return to the Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}}</ref> A far cry from Tyrant's Gardens indeed."


"The Castle of Forests was formed from the antiquated dreams of forests that stretched forever, and was shaped by the dreams of architects and maze-makers to ensnare anyone who enters uninvited.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Consider_the_Castle_of_Forests|Consider the Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}} ''"The Castle's walls are [...] forged from antique dreams of woods without end. [...] dreams of architects and labyrinth-builders have been employed to render the Castle's layout into a grand trap for all who walk its [...] chambers uninvited"''</ref> Not that I am in such a situation myself. Not exactly, at least. They say the Castle was once much less verdant than it is now, when its vines were little more than husks. They say red mice nestled under ivy growths, under ancient trees that overlooked stone structures.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sear_the_Castle_with_Viric|Sear the Castle with Viric|Fallen London|}}</ref> I wish I could see such a place, but for now the greenery runs strong."
"This place was formed from ancient dreams of forests that stretched on forever, and shaped by the dreams of architects and maze-makers to ensnare anyone who enters uninvited.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Consider_the_Castle_of_Forests|Consider the Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}} ''"The Castle's walls are [...] forged from antique dreams of woods without end. [...] dreams of architects and labyrinth-builders have been employed to render the Castle's layout into a grand trap for all who walk its [...] chambers uninvited"''</ref> Not that I am in such a situation myself. Not... exactly, at least."
 
"They say the Castle was once much less verdant than it is now, when its vines were little more than husks. They say red mice nestled under ivy growths, under ancient trees that overlooked stone structures.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sear_the_Castle_with_Viric|Sear the Castle with Viric|Fallen London|}}</ref> I wish I could see such a place, but for now the greenery covers all."
[[File:Parabola medium.png|100px|alt=A field of mirrors under and orange sky.|thumb|[[Parabola]]]]
[[File:Parabola medium.png|100px|alt=A field of mirrors under and orange sky.|thumb|[[Parabola]]]]
"During my time here, I have noticed certain details about the Castle that an average passerby may miss. For example, the Castle always seems to face the [[Coiling Spire]] that leads up to the [[Skin of the Sun]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Affair_of_the_Impatient_Apprentice|The Affair of the Impatient Apprentice|Fallen London|}} ''"The Castle always faces the spire."''</ref> Do the Fingerkings have a fondness for that [[Cosmogone|sunset glow]]?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Set_of_Cosmogone_Spectacles|Set of Cosmogone Spectacles|Fallen London|}}</ref> Furthermore, I noticed that the outer walls of the Castle seem to be made of oak. Past those, pine. And near the center, rosewood.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Gallery_of_Serpents_(7_FATE)|A Gallery of Serpents (7 FATE)|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] great oaks rise like battlements. Behind them [...] pine. At their centre, a gate of rosewood [...]"''</ref> In Parabola, the dead may rise again, and in the Castle of Forests, anything organic may grow. If I could find the bones of a fierce enough creature,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Summon_a_Terror-Bird|Summon a Terror-Bird|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] in the Castle of Forest all that is organic may be grown."''</ref> would anything in Parabola stand in my way?"
"During my time here, I've come to notice certain things about the Castle that an average passerby may miss. For instance: the Castle always seems to face the [[Coiling Spire]] that leads up to the [[Skin of the Sun]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Affair_of_the_Impatient_Apprentice|The Affair of the Impatient Apprentice|Fallen London|}} ''"The Castle always faces the spire."''</ref> Do the Fingerkings have a fondness for that [[Cosmogone|sunset glow]]?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Set_of_Cosmogone_Spectacles|Set of Cosmogone Spectacles|Fallen London|}}</ref> For another thing, the outer walls of the Castle seem to be made of oak; past these, pine; and near the center, rosewood.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Gallery_of_Serpents_(7_FATE)|A Gallery of Serpents (7 FATE)|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] great oaks rise like battlements. Behind them [...] pine. At their centre, a gate of rosewood [...]"''</ref> In Parabola, the dead may rise again, and in the Castle of Forests, anything organic may grow. If I could find the bones of a fierce enough creature,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Summon_a_Terror-Bird|Summon a Terror-Bird|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] in the Castle of Forest all that is organic may be grown."''</ref> would anything in Parabola stand in my way?"


== The Hedges of War ==
== The Hedges of War ==
''"The verdant fortress, formed from strangling vines. At its emerald heart stands the impenetrable citadel of the Fingerkings."''<ref name = "return to castle of forests"/>
''"The verdant fortress, formed from strangling vines. At its emerald heart stands the impenetrable citadel of the Fingerkings."''<ref name = "return to castle of forests"/>
[[File:Fingerking.png|alt=A red, yellow, and black snake within an apple.|thumb|A [[Fingerking]].]]
[[File:Fingerking.png|alt=A red, yellow, and black snake within an apple.|thumb|A [[Fingerking]].]]
"The Castle of Forests seems to be the foremost stronghold of the [[Fingerkings]],<ref name = "return to castle of forests"/> whose warring I've caught glimpses of my dreams,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Shadows_on_the_Mirrorpane|Shadows on the Mirrorpane|Fallen London|}}</ref> and to which I now bear direct witness. The thorny hedges that form the Castle are more than enough to deter the average interloper,<ref name = "return to castle of forests"/> but the Castle holds a location of great strategic importance that may interest a more motivated enemy."
"The Castle of Forests seems to be the foremost stronghold of the [[Fingerkings]].<ref name = "return to castle of forests"/> I've caught glimpses of their warring in my dreams,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Shadows_on_the_Mirrorpane|Shadows on the Mirrorpane|Fallen London|}}</ref> and to this I now bear direct witness. The thorny hedges that form the Castle are more than enough to deter the average interloper,<ref name = "return to castle of forests"/> but the Castle holds a location of great strategic importance that may interest a more motivated enemy."


"At the very center of the Castle lies the '''Citadel of Vineyards''', the Fingerkings' seat of power in this place.<ref name = "within castle of forests"/><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Consider_the_Castle_of_Forests|Consider the Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}}</ref> The only way to reach the Citadel is through a net of hanging vines, filled with protrusions which all contain coils of snakeskin - the remains of failed possession attempts.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Assault_the_Citadel_of_Vineyards|Assault the Citadel of Vineyards|Fallen London|}} ''"The Citadel is reached by a net of hanging vines, plump with protuberances. They break [...] spilling out coils of shed snakeskin [...] all that remains of failed possessions [...]"''</ref> The Citadel itself is protected by three walls and seven gates known as the '''Gates of Remembrance''', so called because they are decorated with the relics of deceased Fingerkings.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Assault_the_Citadel_of_Vineyards|Assault the Citadel of Vineyards|Fallen London|}}</ref> If the Castle's passive deterrents and battlements do not suffice in deterring you, however, the Castle's palace guards and defenses certainly will, once they've been primed and readied.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Assault_the_Citadel_of_Vineyards|Assault the Citadel of Vineyards|Fallen London|}} ''"The defences are primed, too soon."''</ref><ref name = "within castle of forests"/> Pray that you do not meet them directly."
"At the very center of the Castle lies the '''Citadel of Vineyards''', the Fingerkings' seat of power in this place.<ref name = "within castle of forests"/><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Consider_the_Castle_of_Forests|Consider the Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}}</ref> The only way to reach the Citadel is through a net of hanging vines, filled with protrusions which all contain coils of snakeskin - the remains of failed possession attempts.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Assault_the_Citadel_of_Vineyards|Assault the Citadel of Vineyards|Fallen London|}} ''"The Citadel is reached by a net of hanging vines, plump with protuberances. They break [...] spilling out coils of shed snakeskin [...] all that remains of failed possessions [...]"''</ref> The Citadel itself is protected by three walls and seven gates, called the '''Gates of Remembrance''' because they are decorated with the relics of deceased Fingerkings.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Assault_the_Citadel_of_Vineyards|Assault the Citadel of Vineyards|Fallen London|}}</ref> If all the Castle's defenses still don't deter you, however, the Castle's palace guards and defenses certainly will, once they've been primed and readied.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Assault_the_Citadel_of_Vineyards|Assault the Citadel of Vineyards|Fallen London|}} ''"The defences are primed, too soon."''</ref><ref name = "within castle of forests"/> Pray that you do not meet them directly. I've seen the aftermath."
[[File:Catblack.png|alt=A cat.|thumb|A [[Cat]].]]
[[File:Catblack.png|alt=A cat.|thumb|A [[Cat]].]]
"The Castle is also the location of the Fingerkings' treasures from the [[Fourth City]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Uncover_the_Khan%27s_Mirror|Uncover the Khan's Mirror|Fallen London|}}</ref> which they managed to take over near the end of its lifespan.<ref>{{Citation|https://sunlesssea.fandom.com/wiki/Khan%27s_Heart#Interactions|Pay a storyteller|Sunless Sea|}}</ref> Other landmarks include the '''Tower of Ivy and Loathing''', which spans the very height of the Castle.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Siege_yourself|Siege yourself|Fallen London|}}</ref> The Castle is also the location of the '''Palatinate''', a structure that was once ruled by the [[Cats]], but was lost by them to the [[Fingerkings]]. In the past, it was said to be a paradise,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Liberate_the_Surrendered_Palatinate|Liberate the Surrendered Palatinate|Fallen London|}}</ref> but after it was surrendered, it was overrun and consumed by the Castle's greenery.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Palatinate,_Regained|The Palatinate, Regained|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the boughs of the Castle of Forest encroach on the borders."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Leave_the_Palatinate_2|Leave the Palatinate 2|Fallen London|}}</ref> Beyond the Castle's rear flank is a field of yellowing grass,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Reach_the_Appalling_Socialite%27s_Prize|Reach the Appalling Socialite's Prize|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] you enter an empty field, on the far side of the Castle of Forests. Its grass is sickly and yellow [...]"''</ref> but I do not know what [[The Red-Handed Queen|power]] presides there,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bloody-Handed_End|The Bloody-Handed End|Fallen London|}}</ref> if any."
"I've heard whispers that the Castle also hides the Fingerkings' treasures from the [[Fourth City]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Uncover_the_Khan%27s_Mirror|Uncover the Khan's Mirror|Fallen London|}}</ref> which they managed to take over before the Fifth fell atop it.<ref>{{Citation|https://sunlesssea.fandom.com/wiki/Khan%27s_Heart#Interactions|Pay a storyteller|Sunless Sea|}}</ref> Easily visible from here is the '''Tower of Ivy and Loathing''', which spans the very height of the Castle.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Siege_yourself|Siege yourself|Fallen London|}}</ref> And over there is what remains of the '''Palatinate''', a structure that was once ruled by [[cats]] before they lost it to the snakes. They say it was once a paradise,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Liberate_the_Surrendered_Palatinate|Liberate the Surrendered Palatinate|Fallen London|}}</ref> but after it fell, it was overrun and consumed by the Castle's greenery.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Palatinate,_Regained|The Palatinate, Regained|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the boughs of the Castle of Forest encroach on the borders."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Leave_the_Palatinate_2|Leave the Palatinate 2|Fallen London|}}</ref> Beyond the Castle's rear flank is a field of yellowing grass,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Reach_the_Appalling_Socialite%27s_Prize|Reach the Appalling Socialite's Prize|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] you enter an empty field, on the far side of the Castle of Forests. Its grass is sickly and yellow [...]"''</ref> but I do not know what [[The Red-Handed Queen|power]] presides there,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bloody-Handed_End|The Bloody-Handed End|Fallen London|}}</ref> if any."


== The Prison of Thorns ==
== The Prison of Thorns ==
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''"The Fingerkings collect prisoners here like gold in a Viking's hoard. Most are swiftly forgotten, some linger still."''<ref name = "liberate dungeons">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Liberate_the_dungeons_of_the_Castle|Liberate the dungeons of the Castle|Fallen London|}}</ref>
''"The Fingerkings collect prisoners here like gold in a Viking's hoard. Most are swiftly forgotten, some linger still."''<ref name = "liberate dungeons">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Liberate_the_dungeons_of_the_Castle|Liberate the dungeons of the Castle|Fallen London|}}</ref>
[[File:Castleofforests2.png|thumb|Most leave weeping.]]
[[File:Castleofforests2.png|thumb|Most leave weeping.]]
"I suppose I would be a fool if I did not mention the Castle's true purpose: it functions as a giant prison for the [[Fingerkings]].<ref name = "liberate dungeons"/> Certain prisoners are locked in briar-cages,<ref name = "genial magician">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Genial_Magician|The Genial Magician|Fallen London|}}</ref> while others are trapped within the Castle's dungeons.<ref name = "liberate dungeons"/> These dungeons extend far beneath the Castle's grounds, and they swell with rot and fungal growths.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Liberate_the_dungeons_of_the_Castle|Liberate the dungeons of the Castle|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] you spelunk into the rotting, fungal depths of the Castle [...]"''</ref> Prisoners may end up here if they made enemies of the Fingerkings, perhaps by betraying them,<ref name = "genial magician"/> or if they agreed to a deal with them without knowing the full consequences.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bishop_of_Southwark_2|The Bishop of Southwark 2|Fallen London|}}</ref> A common mistake, when tempted by one's greatest dreams coming true."
"I suppose I would be a fool if I did not mention the Castle's true purpose: it functions as a giant prison for the [[Fingerkings]].<ref name = "liberate dungeons"/> Certain prisoners are locked in briar-cages,<ref name = "genial magician">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Genial_Magician|The Genial Magician|Fallen London|}}</ref> while others are trapped within the Castle's dungeons.<ref name = "liberate dungeons"/> These dungeons extend far beneath the Castle's grounds, and they swell with rot and fungus.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Liberate_the_dungeons_of_the_Castle|Liberate the dungeons of the Castle|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] you spelunk into the rotting, fungal depths of the Castle [...]"''</ref> This is where the enemies of the Fingerkings go: those who betrayed them,<ref name = "genial magician"/> or agreed to a deal with them without knowing the full consequences.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bishop_of_Southwark_2|The Bishop of Southwark 2|Fallen London|}}</ref> A common mistake, when tempted by one's greatest dreams coming true."


Other prisoners include lost missionaries, [[Devils]], [[Tigers]], and blinded [[Rosers]].<ref name = "liberate dungeons"/> Sometimes the [[Red-Handed Queen]] herself shows up here,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bloody-Handed_Queen|The Bloody-Handed Queen|Fallen London|}}</ref> though it's unclear if the Fingerkings are her gaolers, guards, or subjects.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Heretic_of_Hollow_Street|The Heretic of Hollow Street|Fallen London|}}''"The Snakes think they are her guards. Sometimes she is their prisoner, sometimes their queen."''</ref> The fate of these prisoners may vary; some of these prisoners are forgotten, others still linger within their cells.<ref name = "liberate dungeons"/> Some few, however, are slated for possession by the [[Fingerkings]].<ref>{{Citation|https://sunlesssea.fandom.com/wiki/The_Forgotten_Quarter|Let the Urbane Magician go free|Sunless Sea|}}</ref> Whether this fate is more dreadful than the others, I do not know."
"But there are other prisoners, too: lost missionaries, [[devils]], [[tigers]], blinded [[Rosers]].<ref name = "liberate dungeons"/> Sometimes the [[Red-Handed Queen]] herself shows up here,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bloody-Handed_Queen|The Bloody-Handed Queen|Fallen London|}}</ref> but I can't tell whether the Fingerkings are her gaolers, guards, or subjects.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Heretic_of_Hollow_Street|The Heretic of Hollow Street|Fallen London|}}''"The Snakes think they are her guards. Sometimes she is their prisoner, sometimes their queen."''</ref> The fate of all these prisoners varies; some are forgotten, while others still linger within their cells.<ref name = "liberate dungeons"/> A few are slated for possession by the [[Fingerkings]].<ref>{{Citation|https://sunlesssea.fandom.com/wiki/The_Forgotten_Quarter|Let the Urbane Magician go free|Sunless Sea|}}</ref> Whether this fate is more dreadful than the others, I do not know."


"The Castle also contains a chapel; in the past, many holy individuals were lured and possessed by the Fingerkings, and after their mortal forms expired, their bones now litter the floor of this place.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ignite_the_Chorus_of_Forests|Ignite the Chorus of Forests|Fallen London|}} ''"You kneel in a chapel [...] clogged with the stolen bones of false-saints."''</ref> Many other individuals who found themselves in the Castle were silenced forever here, but they say that the Castle remembers its victims.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ignite_the_Chorus_of_Forests|Ignite the Chorus of Forests|Fallen London|}}</ref> A comfort, I suppose, as I doubt anyone else on the other side of the glass does."
There's a chapel in there, too; once upon a time, many holy individuals were lured in and possessed by the Fingerkings, and their bones now litter the floor of this place.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ignite_the_Chorus_of_Forests|Ignite the Chorus of Forests|Fallen London|}} ''"You kneel in a chapel [...] clogged with the stolen bones of false-saints."''</ref> Many other individuals who found themselves in the Castle were silenced forever here, but they say that the Castle remembers its victims.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ignite_the_Chorus_of_Forests|Ignite the Chorus of Forests|Fallen London|}}</ref> A comfort, I suppose, as I doubt anyone else on the other side of the glass does."


== A Confession ==
== A Confession ==
''The following writing is not strictly canon, but is largely based on canon sources and information.''
''The following writing is not strictly canon, but is largely based on canon sources and information.''
[[File:Scarydoor.png|alt=A scary door.|thumb|Open the door to your destiny...]]
[[File:Scarydoor.png|alt=A scary door.|thumb|Open the door to your destiny...]]
"I think now would be a good time to inform you, this letter is no guide; rather, it is a confession. I bargained with the Fingerkings for knowledge, but, like many of the other fools chained here, I did not know I would be giving up my freedom in the process. Now, I stand within my briar-cage, as the days led to weeks, then months. I have seen many prisoners depart in one way or another; when I first came here, I gripped my thorned cage until my palms bled. Have I always known my skin would be superfluous, wrapped around my true self like a glove or suit? When the Fingerkings take my body, will they lead my visage to higher glories than I could've ever imaged, or will my face inflict countless horrors on the dreams of innocent? I do not know if I will have time to ponder for an answer; the last of the cells around me were emptied, discarded, or vacated, and soon, I will know what end awaits me."
"I think now would be a good time to inform you that this letter is no guide; rather, it is a confession. I bargained with the Fingerkings for knowledge, but, like many of the other fools chained here, I did not know I would be giving up my freedom in the process. Now, I stand within my briar-cage, as the days led to weeks, then months. I have seen many prisoners depart in one way or another; when I first came here, I gripped my thorned cage until my palms bled. Have I always known my skin would be superfluous, wrapped around my true self like a glove or a suit? When the Fingerkings take my body, will they lead my visage to higher glories than I could ever imagine, or will my face inflict countless horrors on the dreams of the innocent? I do not know if I will have time to ponder for an answer; the last of the cells around me have already been emptied, discarded, or vacated. Soon, I will know what end awaits me."


== References ==
== References ==

Revision as of 22:01, 10 October 2021

"Are you quite sure you want to know this?"

Beyond this point lie major spoilers for Fallen London, Sunless Sea, Sunless Skies, or Mask of the Rose. This may include endgame or major Fate-locked spoilers. Proceed at your own risk.

You can find out more about our spoiler policy here.


"Vine-hung trees knot together to form walls in ascending circles, narrowing as they reach its peak. A formidable citadel stands at the top, bristling with thick thorns and bulging with poisoned fruit. It is part castle, part malevolent hedge-maze."[1]

The Castle of Forests is a verdant fortress of the Fingerkings, located deep within Parabola.

A Letter to My Dearest

"OPEN ARE THE DOUBLE-DOORS OF THE HORIZON..."[2]

Foliage under an orange sky.
Dense foliage.

"The Castle of Forests: an enormous fortress of the Fingerkings, more like a hedge-maze than any castle I've ever seen. Its walls are built of knotted trees and vines, rising into the horizon in concentric circles; at the center is a citadel. The flora here is hostile, bristling with thorns that tear skin like paper, and teeming with poisonous fruit.[3][4] A far cry from Tyrant's Gardens indeed."

"This place was formed from ancient dreams of forests that stretched on forever, and shaped by the dreams of architects and maze-makers to ensnare anyone who enters uninvited.[5] Not that I am in such a situation myself. Not... exactly, at least."

"They say the Castle was once much less verdant than it is now, when its vines were little more than husks. They say red mice nestled under ivy growths, under ancient trees that overlooked stone structures.[6] I wish I could see such a place, but for now the greenery covers all."

A field of mirrors under and orange sky.
Parabola

"During my time here, I've come to notice certain things about the Castle that an average passerby may miss. For instance: the Castle always seems to face the Coiling Spire that leads up to the Skin of the Sun.[7] Do the Fingerkings have a fondness for that sunset glow?[8] For another thing, the outer walls of the Castle seem to be made of oak; past these, pine; and near the center, rosewood.[9] In Parabola, the dead may rise again, and in the Castle of Forests, anything organic may grow. If I could find the bones of a fierce enough creature,[10] would anything in Parabola stand in my way?"

The Hedges of War

"The verdant fortress, formed from strangling vines. At its emerald heart stands the impenetrable citadel of the Fingerkings."[4]

A red, yellow, and black snake within an apple.
A Fingerking.

"The Castle of Forests seems to be the foremost stronghold of the Fingerkings.[4] I've caught glimpses of their warring in my dreams,[11] and to this I now bear direct witness. The thorny hedges that form the Castle are more than enough to deter the average interloper,[4] but the Castle holds a location of great strategic importance that may interest a more motivated enemy."

"At the very center of the Castle lies the Citadel of Vineyards, the Fingerkings' seat of power in this place.[1][12] The only way to reach the Citadel is through a net of hanging vines, filled with protrusions which all contain coils of snakeskin - the remains of failed possession attempts.[13] The Citadel itself is protected by three walls and seven gates, called the Gates of Remembrance because they are decorated with the relics of deceased Fingerkings.[14] If all the Castle's defenses still don't deter you, however, the Castle's palace guards and defenses certainly will, once they've been primed and readied.[15][1] Pray that you do not meet them directly. I've seen the aftermath."

A cat.
A Cat.

"I've heard whispers that the Castle also hides the Fingerkings' treasures from the Fourth City,[16] which they managed to take over before the Fifth fell atop it.[17] Easily visible from here is the Tower of Ivy and Loathing, which spans the very height of the Castle.[18] And over there is what remains of the Palatinate, a structure that was once ruled by cats before they lost it to the snakes. They say it was once a paradise,[19] but after it fell, it was overrun and consumed by the Castle's greenery.[20][21] Beyond the Castle's rear flank is a field of yellowing grass,[22] but I do not know what power presides there,[23] if any."

The Prison of Thorns

"The Castle is a forest; its spread wild and grand. Its dungeons, sunk deep into its roots, are similarly vast."[24]

"The Fingerkings collect prisoners here like gold in a Viking's hoard. Most are swiftly forgotten, some linger still."[24]

Most leave weeping.

"I suppose I would be a fool if I did not mention the Castle's true purpose: it functions as a giant prison for the Fingerkings.[24] Certain prisoners are locked in briar-cages,[25] while others are trapped within the Castle's dungeons.[24] These dungeons extend far beneath the Castle's grounds, and they swell with rot and fungus.[26] This is where the enemies of the Fingerkings go: those who betrayed them,[25] or agreed to a deal with them without knowing the full consequences.[27] A common mistake, when tempted by one's greatest dreams coming true."

"But there are other prisoners, too: lost missionaries, devils, tigers, blinded Rosers.[24] Sometimes the Red-Handed Queen herself shows up here,[28] but I can't tell whether the Fingerkings are her gaolers, guards, or subjects.[29] The fate of all these prisoners varies; some are forgotten, while others still linger within their cells.[24] A few are slated for possession by the Fingerkings.[30] Whether this fate is more dreadful than the others, I do not know."

There's a chapel in there, too; once upon a time, many holy individuals were lured in and possessed by the Fingerkings, and their bones now litter the floor of this place.[31] Many other individuals who found themselves in the Castle were silenced forever here, but they say that the Castle remembers its victims.[32] A comfort, I suppose, as I doubt anyone else on the other side of the glass does."

A Confession

The following writing is not strictly canon, but is largely based on canon sources and information.

A scary door.
Open the door to your destiny...

"I think now would be a good time to inform you that this letter is no guide; rather, it is a confession. I bargained with the Fingerkings for knowledge, but, like many of the other fools chained here, I did not know I would be giving up my freedom in the process. Now, I stand within my briar-cage, as the days led to weeks, then months. I have seen many prisoners depart in one way or another; when I first came here, I gripped my thorned cage until my palms bled. Have I always known my skin would be superfluous, wrapped around my true self like a glove or a suit? When the Fingerkings take my body, will they lead my visage to higher glories than I could ever imagine, or will my face inflict countless horrors on the dreams of the innocent? I do not know if I will have time to ponder for an answer; the last of the cells around me have already been emptied, discarded, or vacated. Soon, I will know what end awaits me."

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Within the Castle of Forests, Fallen London
  2. ↑ A silvered future 1, Fallen London
  3. ↑ Within the Castle of Forests, Fallen London "Vine-hung trees knot together to form walls in ascending circles, narrowing [...] A [...] citadel [...] at the top, [...] with thick thorns and [...] poisoned fruit. It is part castle, part malevolent hedge-maze."
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 Return to the Castle of Forests, Fallen London
  5. ↑ Consider the Castle of Forests, Fallen London "The Castle's walls are [...] forged from antique dreams of woods without end. [...] dreams of architects and labyrinth-builders have been employed to render the Castle's layout into a grand trap for all who walk its [...] chambers uninvited"
  6. ↑ Sear the Castle with Viric, Fallen London
  7. ↑ The Affair of the Impatient Apprentice, Fallen London "The Castle always faces the spire."
  8. ↑ Set of Cosmogone Spectacles, Fallen London
  9. ↑ A Gallery of Serpents (7 FATE), Fallen London "[...] great oaks rise like battlements. Behind them [...] pine. At their centre, a gate of rosewood [...]"
  10. ↑ Summon a Terror-Bird, Fallen London "[...] in the Castle of Forest all that is organic may be grown."
  11. ↑ Shadows on the Mirrorpane, Fallen London
  12. ↑ Consider the Castle of Forests, Fallen London
  13. ↑ Assault the Citadel of Vineyards, Fallen London "The Citadel is reached by a net of hanging vines, plump with protuberances. They break [...] spilling out coils of shed snakeskin [...] all that remains of failed possessions [...]"
  14. ↑ Assault the Citadel of Vineyards, Fallen London
  15. ↑ Assault the Citadel of Vineyards, Fallen London "The defences are primed, too soon."
  16. ↑ Uncover the Khan's Mirror, Fallen London
  17. ↑ Pay a storyteller, Sunless Sea
  18. ↑ Siege yourself, Fallen London
  19. ↑ Liberate the Surrendered Palatinate, Fallen London
  20. ↑ The Palatinate, Regained, Fallen London "[...] the boughs of the Castle of Forest encroach on the borders."
  21. ↑ Leave the Palatinate 2, Fallen London
  22. ↑ Reach the Appalling Socialite's Prize, Fallen London "[...] you enter an empty field, on the far side of the Castle of Forests. Its grass is sickly and yellow [...]"
  23. ↑ The Bloody-Handed End, Fallen London
  24. ↑ 24.0 24.1 24.2 24.3 24.4 24.5 Liberate the dungeons of the Castle, Fallen London
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 The Genial Magician, Fallen London
  26. ↑ Liberate the dungeons of the Castle, Fallen London "[...] you spelunk into the rotting, fungal depths of the Castle [...]"
  27. ↑ The Bishop of Southwark 2, Fallen London
  28. ↑ The Bloody-Handed Queen, Fallen London
  29. ↑ The Heretic of Hollow Street, Fallen London "The Snakes think they are her guards. Sometimes she is their prisoner, sometimes their queen."
  30. ↑ Let the Urbane Magician go free, Sunless Sea
  31. ↑ Ignite the Chorus of Forests, Fallen London "You kneel in a chapel [...] clogged with the stolen bones of false-saints."
  32. ↑ Ignite the Chorus of Forests, Fallen London
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