The Howling Cliff (Adventurer) (Patreon)

This tall and imposing rise seems to arc out over the treetops of the surrounding forest in a small glade, the steps up providing a plateau for surveying the nearby lands, pitching a secure camp, mounting a defense, or perhaps even waiting in ambush over other unsuspecting travelers. A question does come to mind, however. What are these strange claw marks on the stones leading to the summit, and why are there so very many of them?