Item Categories
Tideroot Materials
"Tideroot Leaves are the broad, fibrous, and incredibly resilient leaves harvested from the hardy Tideroot Tree, one of the most common and respected coastal trees across the island chain. Their thick structure and well-developed vein network evolved to withstand the constant salt-laden winds and battering rains of the archipelago's monsoon seasons. These leaves are renowned among Scarfoxes for their strength, weather resistance, and long-lasting durability, making them a staple material for both everyday use and festival preparations."
Appearance
- Length: 4 to 7 feet long
- Color (Fresh): Deep sea-green with prominent pale, rope-like veins
- Color (Dried): Soft golden-tan with visible, almost wood-like grain patterns
- Texture: Smooth on top, fibrous and textured underneath, similar to banana leaves but thicker and sturdier
Cultural Harvesting & Preparation
Harvest Season
Scarfox communities begin harvesting Tideroot Leaves one month before summer, in anticipation of both the monsoon season and the summer festivals, including the Night of Plenty.
Drying Process
- Leaves are carefully spread flat along terracotta rooftops, secured with stones or woven nets to prevent wind damage
- It takes several weeks for the thick leaves to dry fully
- Drying under the sun toughens the material and brings out the golden hues
Cleaning Process
- After drying, artisans scrub away the green cellulose layer, exposing the inner fibrous veins. This process is labor-intensive but reveals flexible, durable sheets perfect for crafting.
Primary Uses
Drum Making
- Dried, cleaned Tideroot Leaves are stretched across wooden frames to create weather-resistant drum heads — essential for island music, ceremonies, and festivals.
Firework Casings
- The strong, flexible leaves are wrapped around firework cores, especially for large, high-altitude festival fireworks like Hanabi's grand displays.
Weaving & Utility Crafting
Used in the creation of:
- Market mats and basket linings
- Wind-resistant festival flags and streamers
- Lightweight rain canopies or temporary shelters
Cultural Significance
Symbol of Endurance
The Tideroot Tree is seen as a guardian of the islands, its roots preventing erosion and its leaves shielding homes and traditions. Items made from Tideroot Leaves are believed to carry the strength of the land and the steadfastness of island life.
Voice of the Winds
Drums made from these leaves are said to echo the heartbeat of the island, their sound carrying across meadows, cliffs, and festival grounds as a reminder of unity and resilience.
Harvesting Notes
- Improperly dried leaves warp or crack, making them unusable
- It’s considered bad luck to harvest leaves from a Tideroot Tree showing signs of sickness or rot
- Elders often lead communal harvests, blending practical work with songs, blessings, and stories about the islands' resilience
How to Obtain:
• Drum the Path Prompt