The Verdan are one of the youngest peoples in Andórë and among the few whose origin can be traced to a single divine act.
Two thousand years ago, during the final days of the Great Elf War, the goblin tribes loyal to Empress Velhelsin stood beside her as she attempted to steal power from the gods themselves. One small tribe, however, learned of the plan and secretly warned the pantheon. When the ritual failed and the gods descended in judgment, that tribe was rewarded for its loyalty. Xokone transformed them into something new. Their crooked teeth straightened, their blemishes vanished, and their forms became taller, healthier, and more graceful. Thus were the Verdan born.
The blessing came at a terrible cost.
To the newly created Drow and the loyalists of the Velhelsinese Empire, the transformed goblins were traitors responsible for the downfall of their people. Hunted and persecuted, the Verdan fled westward seeking refuge. They found it in the Thylalyrian Confederation, where the deeply religious Dragonborn saw them not as traitors, but as living proof of divine favor. The Dragonborn opened their cities to the refugees and accepted them as fellow citizens.
Two millennia later, the Verdan remain a relatively small population, but they are thoroughly integrated into Thylalyrian society. Most Verdan speak Dragonborn languages fluently, worship alongside their Dragonborn neighbors, and consider the Confederation their homeland. While they remember their origins, few modern Verdan feel any connection to goblin culture, and most have more in common with the Dragonborn families among whom they have lived for generations than with the Goblinoids of the Velhelsinese Empire.
Physically, Verdan retain hints of their goblin ancestry, but Xokone's blessing is evident in every aspect of their appearance. They possess smooth skin, expressive eyes, straight teeth, and refined features that many attribute to the influence of the Goddess of Beauty herself. Their most unusual trait is their late growth. Verdan spend their youth roughly the size of goblins, but sometime after reaching adulthood each experiences a dramatic growth spurt, often increasing their height by two feet or more over a relatively short period.
The blessing altered more than their appearance. Verdan heal unusually quickly, possess a limited form of telepathy, and demonstrate remarkable resistance to magical influence. Many scholars believe these gifts represent lingering traces of divine power carried within the species itself.
Perhaps the most defining trait of the Verdan, however, is cultural rather than physical.
Unlike most peoples, they do not possess an ancient homeland, legendary empire, ancestral kingdom, or heroic age from which to draw their identity. Their entire history begins with exile.
As a result, Verdan tend to place less importance on ancestry and more importance on community. They define themselves not by where they came from, but by the people who accepted them when they had nowhere else to go.
Among the Dragonborn of Thylalyr, this attitude has earned them a reputation as humble, trustworthy, and deeply loyal citizens. Among the Drow of the Velhelsinese Empire, opinions remain considerably less charitable.
For the Verdan themselves, the matter is simple.
They were given a second chance by a goddess and a home by a nation.
They have spent the last two thousand years trying to be worthy of both.
Naming Traditions¶
Verdan naming customs differ significantly from those of their goblin ancestors.
While goblin society traditionally emphasized clan identity, tribal affiliation, and lineage, the Verdan abandoned those practices long ago. Modern Verdan do not use clan names, tribal names, or family names. Most possess a single given name that serves as their full legal and social identity.
This practice emerged during the chaotic years following their flight from the Velhelsinese Empire. Families were scattered, records were lost, and many refugees deliberately abandoned their former identities to avoid persecution. Over time, the custom became a cultural norm rather than a necessity.
As a result, a Verdan introducing themselves simply as Sollo or Veriga is entirely normal.
Additional identifiers may occasionally be used when clarification is necessary, such as occupation, city of residence, or family relationships, but these are descriptive rather than hereditary.
Verdan names also show the lingering influence of their goblin origins. Many are derived from ancient goblin names that have gradually softened over the centuries. Harsh consonants have been reduced, difficult sounds have disappeared, and names have become easier for non-goblins to pronounce.
Most outsiders can still hear traces of their goblin ancestry within Verdan names, but only faintly.
Unlike many species, Verdan names make no distinction between male and female individuals. The same name may be given to any child regardless of sex, and most Verdan find the concept of gendered names somewhat strange.
Common Verdan Names¶
Bronn, Crahma, Dolar, Dreeda, Duglee, Gruvald, Hulm, Jeal, Kalo, Klesh, Korm, Lathi, Ovlig, Paracii, Pils, Praet, Promul, Reezni, Rin, Shylk, Slyra, Sollo, Stalsii, Stromvo, Stussa, Syrkart, Takat, Toit, Tubyna, Varr, Veriga, Wraq, Wural, Wurxee
A Common Saying¶
"The gods gave us a new face. We saw no reason to keep the old labels."
Many Verdan view names as useful identifiers rather than important markers of status, ancestry, or social position. A person's character matters far more than the name they happen to carry.
Beauty Ideals¶
The Verdan place a greater emphasis on physical beauty than most Peoples of Andórë.
This tendency is often attributed to their divine origins. Having been transformed by Xokone, Goddess of Beauty, many Verdan view beauty not merely as an aesthetic preference but as a gift worthy of appreciation and care.
Unlike their goblin ancestors, who tended to value practicality above appearance, Verdan generally take pride in maintaining their health, grooming, and presentation.
Most see nothing vain about wanting to look their best.
After all, if a goddess chose to make them beautiful, allowing that gift to go to waste would seem rather ungrateful.
Symmetry And Health¶
Verdan tend to admire physical features commonly associated with health and vitality.
Particularly attractive traits include:
- Symmetrical facial features
- Clear, healthy skin
- Bright eyes
- Healthy hair
- Good posture
- Physical fitness
Scars are not necessarily viewed negatively, but most Verdan prefer to minimize or conceal them when possible.
Masculine Ideals¶
Among men, broad shoulders, athletic builds, physical fitness, and confident posture are widely admired.
Verdan men often favor clothing that emphasizes:
- Strong shoulders
- Narrow waists
- Height
- Physical conditioning
A healthy and well-maintained appearance is generally considered more attractive than sheer size or strength.
Feminine Ideals¶
Among women, graceful proportions and traditionally feminine silhouettes are commonly admired.
Traits frequently praised include:
- Hourglass figures
- Symmetrical features
- Graceful movement
- Healthy hair
- Elegant posture
Many Verdan women take considerable pride in their appearance and often develop impressive skills in fashion, cosmetics, and personal presentation.
Presentation Matters¶
Because beauty is viewed as something that should be cultivated rather than merely possessed, effort itself is often considered attractive.
A Verdan who dresses well, maintains good hygiene, and takes pride in their appearance is generally viewed more favorably than someone blessed with natural beauty who neglects it.
This attitude likely reflects the influence of Xokone's teachings concerning beauty as something to be actively pursued rather than passively enjoyed.
Beauty Beyond Appearance¶
Despite their reputation for vanity, most Verdan do not believe beauty is solely physical.
Charm, kindness, confidence, wit, and social grace are also highly valued.
Many Verdan believe the most attractive individuals are those who make others feel welcome and appreciated.
A beautiful face may draw attention.
A beautiful personality keeps it.
A Common Saying¶
"Beauty is a gift. Caring for it is gratitude."
Most Verdan consider this a perfectly reasonable philosophy.
Most Goblins consider it evidence that the blessing changed far more than their appearance.
Gender Ideals¶
Verdan society places relatively little importance on gender when determining a person's role within the community.
While the Verdan have become far more refined than their goblin ancestors in many respects, they retained the goblin tendency to evaluate people primarily according to their abilities, character, and willingness to contribute.
As a result, most professions, positions of authority, and social responsibilities are open to anyone regardless of gender.
Practical Biology¶
Verdan recognize that certain biological differences exist.
Women bear children.
Women nurse infants.
These realities naturally create some differences in family responsibilities during the earliest years of a child's life.
Most Verdan consider this a matter of biology rather than culture.
Once children are old enough to no longer depend upon nursing, parental responsibilities are generally shared between both parents.
Ability Over Gender¶
Verdan typically judge individuals according to qualities such as:
- Competence
- Reliability
- Kindness
- Intelligence
- Charisma
- Work ethic
Gender is usually considered a secondary concern, if it is considered at all.
A Verdan merchant is expected to be good at trade.
A Verdan priest is expected to be devoted to their faith.
A Verdan soldier is expected to be capable in battle.
Most Verdan see little reason why gender should affect any of these expectations.
Leadership¶
Both men and women can be found throughout Verdan society in positions of authority.
Community leaders, merchants, artisans, priests, scholars, and military officers may be of either sex.
Verdan generally care far more about whether someone can perform a job well than whether they happen to be male or female.
Family Life¶
While mothers naturally play a larger role during infancy, Verdan family structures tend to be highly cooperative.
Children are often raised with the support of extended family, close friends, neighbors, and religious communities.
This communal attitude likely reflects both their goblin heritage and the close-knit communities they established after arriving in Thylalyr.
Beauty And Gender¶
Although Verdan beauty standards differ somewhat between men and women, these ideals are generally viewed as matters of attractiveness rather than social obligation.
A Verdan woman is not expected to behave a certain way because she is beautiful.
A Verdan man is not expected to pursue a particular profession because he is broad-shouldered.
Beauty is admired.
Competence is respected.
The two are not considered interchangeable.
A Common Saying¶
"A pretty face might open a door. What you do afterward is what matters."
Most Verdan consider this practical advice, and a useful reminder that Xokone's blessing gave them beauty, not purpose.
Relationships and Courtship¶
Verdan courtship reflects two thousand years of life within the Thylalyrian Confederation.
While traces of their goblin ancestry remain, centuries of living among Dragonborn communities, temples, and religious institutions have significantly reshaped Verdan attitudes toward romance, family, and commitment.
As a result, modern Verdan relationships tend to occupy a middle ground between the practical pairings of their goblin ancestors and the highly formal courtship traditions practiced by many Dragonborn families.
Courtship Matters¶
Most Verdan view romantic relationships as serious commitments rather than casual arrangements.
While they are generally less formal than Dragonborn, they tend to place significant importance on honesty, loyalty, and mutual respect.
A Verdan may date several people throughout their life, but once they commit to a relationship, they are usually expected to take that commitment seriously.
The Influence Of Thylalyr¶
The Dragonborn emphasis on family, community, faith, and personal responsibility has had a profound effect on Verdan culture.
Many Verdan grew up surrounded by Dragonborn neighbors whose marriages were treated as sacred commitments rather than temporary arrangements.
Over the centuries, these values became part of Verdan culture as well.
Modern Verdan generally expect romantic partners to be:
- Faithful
- Dependable
- Honest
- Supportive
- Family-oriented
While these expectations are not unique to Verdan, they are often more pronounced than among many other goblinoid peoples.
Less Ceremony, More Sincerity¶
Unlike Dragonborn, Verdan rarely surround courtship with elaborate rituals, family negotiations, or formal declarations.
Most prefer simpler approaches.
Shared meals.
Long conversations.
Gifts.
Acts of service.
Time spent together.
Verdan tend to believe that sincerity is more important than ceremony.
A heartfelt gesture is often valued more highly than an expensive one.
Marriage¶
Marriage is common among the Verdan and is generally viewed as a lifelong commitment.
Religious ceremonies are widespread, particularly among those who worship within the temples of Thylalyr.
Many Verdan regard marriage as both a personal promise and a public declaration that two people intend to build a life together.
Families¶
Verdan typically place great importance on family life.
Children are often raised not only by parents but also by grandparents, aunts, uncles, family friends, and members of the local community.
This communal approach to childrearing reflects both their goblin heritage and the close-knit neighborhoods in which Verdan communities traditionally developed.
Many Verdan believe children benefit from having numerous trusted adults in their lives.
Relationships With Other Species¶
Because Verdan communities are relatively small, relationships with other species are common and widely accepted.
Dragonborn, Humans, Dwarves, Halflings, and other peoples are all frequent marriage partners.
Most Verdan care far more about a person's character than their ancestry.
This attitude is often summarized by a simple observation:
"We were accepted by people who were not like us. Why should we do otherwise?"
A Common Saying¶
"Love should be chosen with the heart, but maintained with effort."
Most Verdan consider this both romantic and practical, which is exactly how they prefer such things.
Common Etiquette¶
Verdan etiquette reflects two thousand years of life within the highly religious and civilized society of the Thylalyrian Confederation.
While outsiders sometimes assume Verdan share the rough manners commonly associated with goblinoids, the reality is quite different.
Modern Verdan are generally regarded as polite, considerate, and socially adept.
Many take pride in proving that first impressions can be wrong.
Courtesy Matters¶
Verdan place considerable value on everyday acts of courtesy.
Common expectations include:
- Greeting others politely
- Thanking people for assistance
- Offering apologies when appropriate
- Respecting personal property
- Keeping promises
- Showing consideration toward guests
Most Verdan consider these simple signs of respect rather than burdensome social obligations.
Hospitality¶
Like many peoples of Thylalyr, Verdan tend to be generous hosts.
Offering food, drink, or a comfortable place to sit is considered normal when receiving guests.
Visitors are often surprised by the warmth of Verdan hospitality.
Verdan usually find this reaction amusing.
Respect For Faith¶
Even Verdan who are not especially devout generally show respect toward temples, priests, religious symbols, and sacred ceremonies.
Centuries of living within a theocratic society have made such practices second nature.
Openly mocking another person's faith is considered rude in most Verdan communities.
Community Reputation¶
Verdan place significant importance on reputation.
Because their ancestors survived only through the goodwill of others, many Verdan remain conscious of how their actions reflect upon their families and communities.
Acts of kindness and generosity are remembered.
So are acts of selfishness.
As a result, many Verdan make a conscious effort to leave positive impressions.
Avoiding Unnecessary Conflict¶
Most Verdan prefer resolving disagreements through conversation rather than confrontation.
This does not mean they are timid.
Rather, they generally see little value in creating enemies when a problem can be solved through discussion.
Many have inherited a talent for persuasion alongside a preference for cooperation.
Names And Titles¶
Verdan are usually comfortable addressing others by their preferred names and titles.
Unlike some more hierarchical societies, they tend not to obsess over rank or status.
Basic respect is expected for everyone, regardless of position.
The Goblin Assumption¶
One of the quickest ways to offend a Verdan is to assume they share the manners, customs, or behavior commonly associated with goblins.
Most understand the historical connection.
Many even find it amusing.
But repeatedly treating a Verdan as though they are merely a prettier goblin is unlikely to earn a favorable response.
A Common Saying¶
"Good manners cost nothing. Bad manners cost opportunities."
Most Verdan learn this lesson early in life, and many spend the rest of their lives proving it true.
Common Dress¶
Verdan clothing tends to be colorful, well-tailored, and intentionally flattering.
Unlike the practical robes of the Vedalken, the austere uniforms of many Dragonborn officials, or the rough clothing common among goblinoid tribes, Verdan fashion often embraces the idea that appearance is worth celebrating.
Many Verdan believe there is nothing wrong with wanting to look attractive.
In fact, many would argue there is something admirable about taking pride in one's appearance.
Fashion As Self-Expression¶
Verdan clothing often emphasizes:
- Attractive silhouettes
- Bright colors
- Fine fabrics
- Jewelry
- Personal grooming
- Decorative accessories
While practicality remains important, most Verdan see little reason why clothing cannot be both functional and beautiful.
Men's Fashion¶
Verdan men often favor clothing that highlights:
- Broad shoulders
- Athletic builds
- Good posture
Fitted jackets, tailored tunics, decorative belts, embroidered vests, and well-crafted boots are common.
Many enjoy clothing that projects confidence and competence without appearing ostentatious.
Women's Fashion¶
Verdan women are widely known for dressing more boldly than most other peoples of Andórë.
Many fashions are deliberately designed to emphasize:
- Waistlines
- Curves
- Elegant posture
- Physical beauty
Necklines, fitted garments, decorative jewelry, and clothing that highlights feminine features are all common within Verdan communities.
While outsiders occasionally view these styles as provocative, most Verdan women see them simply as attractive.
If Xokone blessed them with beauty, many reason, there is little sense in pretending otherwise.
Cosmetics And Grooming¶
Cosmetics are common among both men and women.
Verdan frequently use:
- Perfumes
- Skin treatments
- Hair products
- Cosmetics
- Jewelry
Good grooming is generally considered a sign of self-respect.
Neglecting one's appearance is often viewed as unusual.
Dragonborn Influence¶
Despite their appreciation for beauty, Verdan fashion is rarely extravagant.
Centuries of life in Thylalyr have encouraged a degree of restraint.
Most Verdan prefer to appear attractive rather than decadent.
The goal is admiration, not excess.
Formal Wear¶
Formal Verdan attire can be remarkably elegant.
Festivals, weddings, religious celebrations, and civic ceremonies often feature clothing rich with color, embroidery, precious metals, and gemstones.
These occasions provide opportunities for Verdan to fully indulge their love of beauty and presentation.
A Common Saying¶
"Beauty hidden serves no one."
Most Verdan consider this a perfectly sensible observation.
Customs and Traditions¶
Verdan customs revolve around beauty, gratitude, community, and the blessings of Xokone.
While they have adopted many traditions from the Dragonborn of Thylalyr, they have also maintained customs uniquely their own, many of which reflect their unusual origins.
The Festival of Reflection¶
The most important Verdan holiday occurs during Xokone's Festival of Twilight. While Dragonborn communities may observe the day respectfully, Verdan celebrations are often far more personal.
Families gather to remember the story of their ancestors' transformation and exile.
Stories are shared.
Songs are sung.
Old family heirlooms are displayed.
Many Verdan spend part of the evening looking into a mirror while reflecting upon the blessings and opportunities they have received during the previous year.
The tradition serves as both an act of gratitude and a reminder not to become consumed by vanity.
Beauty is a gift.
It is not the entirety of a person.
The Day of Renewal¶
Many Verdan dedicate one day each year to improving something about themselves.
Some learn a new skill.
Some repair a damaged relationship.
Some begin exercising.
Some change careers.
Others finally complete projects they have postponed for years.
The specific improvement matters less than the effort.
The tradition reflects the Verdan belief that Xokone transformed their ancestors once, but personal growth remains each individual's responsibility.
The Growth Celebration¶
When a young Verdan undergoes their dramatic adult growth spurt, friends and family often host a celebration marking their transition into full adulthood.
New clothing is frequently given as gifts, since the old wardrobe is usually no longer usable.
The event is often accompanied by considerable teasing from older relatives who remember undergoing the same transformation.
For many Verdan, this celebration remains one of the most cherished memories of childhood.
Acts of Everyday Beauty¶
Unlike many religious peoples who reserve devotion for holy days, Verdan often honor Xokone through small daily acts.
Fresh flowers placed in a home.
Well-maintained gardens.
Carefully prepared meals.
Personal grooming.
Beautiful clothing.
Works of art.
A Verdan might not consciously think of these acts as worship, but many priests argue they are exactly that.
The Gift of Compliments¶
Among Verdan communities, sincere compliments are surprisingly common.
Many believe beauty should be recognized and appreciated when it is encountered.
Compliments concerning appearance, craftsmanship, artistic talent, or personal achievement are freely given.
The key word is sincere.
Flattery without honesty is generally frowned upon.
The Mirror Vigil¶
Before major life events such as marriages, important journeys, or significant career changes, some Verdan spend an evening in quiet reflection before a mirror.
The purpose is not vanity.
Rather, it is an opportunity to ask oneself a simple question:
"Am I becoming the person I wish to be?"
Many Verdan regard this tradition as one of the most meaningful acts of self-examination in their culture.
A Common Saying¶
"Xokone gave us beauty once. The rest is our responsibility."
Most Verdan consider this both a statement of faith and a guide for living.
Common Taboos¶
Verdan taboos largely revolve around vanity, ingratitude, cruelty, and the rejection of the community that allowed their people to survive.
While individual Verdan vary greatly in personality, certain behaviors are almost universally condemned.
Forgetting Their Origins¶
Verdan are proud of who they have become, but most believe it is important to remember where they came from.
A Verdan who openly mocks goblins, denies their ancestry, or acts as though their people were always beautiful and respected is often viewed with disapproval.
The blessing transformed them.
It did not erase their history.
Many Verdan consider forgetting that distinction a sign of arrogance.
Beauty Without Substance¶
Despite their appreciation for physical beauty, Verdan generally distrust people who rely upon appearance alone.
Someone who is beautiful but selfish, dishonest, cruel, or lazy is often viewed as having wasted Xokone's gift.
A handsome fool remains a fool.
A beautiful liar remains a liar.
Most Verdan believe appearance should complement character rather than replace it.
Deliberate Ugliness¶
Verdan rarely judge people for natural appearance.
They do, however, look poorly upon the deliberate neglect of oneself.
Consistently poor hygiene, filthy clothing, and obvious disregard for one's appearance are often viewed as signs of disrespect toward oneself and others.
Most Verdan consider basic grooming a matter of courtesy.
Insulting Hospitality¶
Verdan place considerable value on hospitality and community.
Needlessly insulting a host, damaging a guest's property, or treating acts of generosity with contempt is considered deeply rude.
Many Verdan view hospitality as one of the highest expressions of trust.
Abusing that trust is remembered.
Cruel Mockery¶
Verdan enjoy humor, teasing, and playful banter.
What they generally dislike is cruelty disguised as humor.
Mocking someone's appearance, disability, misfortune, or personal struggles is considered poor behavior.
This attitude likely stems from the memory of how their ancestors were treated following their transformation.
Wasting A Second Chance¶
Among the most uniquely Verdan taboos is the belief that one should not squander opportunities for personal growth.
A person who repeatedly refuses to improve themselves, learn from mistakes, or change destructive behavior is often met with frustration.
The Verdan were given a second chance by a goddess.
Many believe everyone deserves to make good use of the chances they are given.
Claiming Superiority¶
Perhaps the fastest way to offend a Verdan is to suggest that their blessing makes them inherently superior to other peoples.
Most Verdan believe Xokone elevated their ancestors because of loyalty, not because they were more deserving than anyone else.
A Verdan who begins acting as though they are better than Goblins, Dragonborn, Humans, or anyone else is often reminded of that fact rather quickly.
A Common Saying¶
"Beauty is a blessing. Pride is a choice."
Among the Verdan, the two are considered very different things.
Historical Figures¶
The Verdan possess remarkably few celebrated historical figures.
This is partly a consequence of their small population and partly a reflection of their cultural values. Most Verdan place greater importance on communities, families, and shared achievements than on individual fame.
There is, however, one exception.
Ironically, nobody knows their name.
The Nameless Leader¶
Two thousand years ago, during the final days of the Great Elf War, a goblin clan leader made a decision that changed the course of history.
When Empress Velhelsin attempted to seize divine power for herself, this leader learned of the plan and chose to warn the gods rather than remain loyal to their sovereign.
The warning allowed the pantheon to intervene.
The ritual failed.
The Velhelsinese Empire was cursed.
The Drow were born.
And the loyal goblin clan that had revealed the plot was transformed by Xokone into the first Verdan.
Without that decision, the Verdan would not exist.
The Secret Name¶
When the newly created Verdan fled the wrath of Velhelsin's followers, they carried one secret above all others:
The name of the leader who had betrayed the Empress.
The name was never spoken to outsiders.
Not to Drow. Not to Goblins. Not to inquisitors. Not to torturers. Not to anyone.
Many feared that revealing the name would allow their enemies to desecrate the leader's memory, punish surviving relatives, or rewrite the story of what had happened.
So the Verdan protected it.
Generation after generation.
Century after century.
The Lost Name¶
Eventually, something unexpected occurred.
The Verdan became so successful at keeping the secret that they lost it themselves.
The name ceased to be written.
Then it ceased to be spoken.
Then it ceased to be remembered.
By the time historians realized what was happening, the knowledge had already vanished.
Today, no living Verdan knows the founder's name.
Nor does anyone else.
A Hero Without A Name¶
Modern Verdan generally regard the Nameless Leader as the founder of their people.
Statues exist. Paintings exist. Stories exist. Songs exist.
Yet every depiction portrays a different individual.
Some are male. Some are female. Some appear young. Some old. Some are shown carrying weapons. Others carrying holy symbols.
No consensus exists because no reliable descriptions survived.
The one thing every account agrees upon is that they chose principle over power and truth over loyalty.
For most Verdan, that is enough.
The Greatest Secret Ever Kept¶
Among historians, the lost name remains one of the great mysteries of the Great Elf War.
Among the Verdan, it is viewed somewhat differently.
Many believe the founder's identity no longer matters.
Their choice matters.
Their courage matters.
Their sacrifice matters.
The name itself was only ever a label.
The deed is what endured.
A Common Saying¶
"We forgot the name. We remembered the lesson."
Most Verdan consider that a worthy trade.
Stats¶
Scientific Name
Homo mutatio amicus
Lifespan
50-60 years
Average Height
4-5 feet tall
Average Weight
80-120 pounds
Average Physique
Lean and agile with small, nimble fingers
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
The Verdan's skin is generally smooth and free from markings, but they have been known to apply temporary tattoos for decorative or symbolic purposes.
Their skin tone varies, but it typically ranges from light green to dark olive.