Description
These magnificent waka are carved from still-living trees, their bark continuing to grow in intricate patterns along the hull while maintaining the vessel's seaworthiness. The wood remains supple yet strong, with living grain that flows like water frozen in time.
Each night when moored in water, the living vessels draw nutrients from the sea to mend cracks, seal gaps, and restore damaged sections. Minor scratches vanish by dawn, while larger breaches slowly knit themselves back together with new growth.
A dedicated boat tender, versed in both carpentry and botanical lore, nurtures these vessels with special oils and chants that encourage healthy growth. They prune excess growth and guide the wood's natural expansion to maintain the craft's balance and beauty.
Over years of faithful service, the waka gradually expand as their living wood adds new layers, increasing cargo capacity and passenger space. The eldest vessels become magnificent craft that can carry entire families across the vast Pacific waters.
Benefits
Settlement gains 4 living waka. Boats repair 10 hp damage per night in water. After 1 year, capacity increases 25%. Boats have hardness 8. Cannot sink while any wood remains. +5 Prestige.