For the first time since arriving in this new world, Lerato Jaye felt fully at peace.
Even though he had only been on Manta Carlos for all of two weeks, he had already heard rumors of the Forbidden Forest. Few ever dared to venture into it’s dark woods, afraid of the dangers lurking within. Some were wary of the maze-like trees, believing that the forest actually moved, while others put their money on terrifying creatures and haunting spirits. One of the most intense rumors was that of a Wendigo in the forests, an unnamed monster that fed on human flesh. The words circulated were enough to send chills up a man’s spine, but innocent as he was, Lerato ignored the rumors.
After all, he grew up in a forest that was seemingly far more intimidating than this shadowy grove.
In the end, Lerato was glad he had ventured out. The lack of others had let the forest grow and shape itself unlike most other forests the world had to offer. Despite popular belief, it was alive. There was more life in the Forbidden Forest than anywhere else he had seen on the island, for so many creatures flocked here to escape scrutinizing eyes.
The ghoulish trees, for a time, whispered frightening nothings as he passed… but now, they were simply discussing their days. Goblins, trolls, and other creatures were thankful for the accepting company, and Lerato found himself in conversation after enlightening conversation. Really, that one faceless monster was quite intelligent, apparently considering enrollment to the Academy to work towards a law degree. Sure, his lanky arms and jagged claws were startling, but it was rude to judge a book by it’s cover.
Overall, Lerato thought the forest had an unnecessarily bad reputation. These guys were cool, and he would have to try to calm a bit of the stigma.
With so many pleasant interactions, Lerato had let his guard down. Though he could sense all life forces around him, he had no way of differentiating between their positions or intentions. He was no longer on the watch for threats, simply enjoying the dark and terrifying setting, and he was vulnerable.
He laughed silently at an undead squirrel’s jokes about nut storage and how, really, they only did it now for the sake of tradition.
Lerato Jaye was the perfect little victim, his black and purple crown of wildflowers and all.
Even though he had only been on Manta Carlos for all of two weeks, he had already heard rumors of the Forbidden Forest. Few ever dared to venture into it’s dark woods, afraid of the dangers lurking within. Some were wary of the maze-like trees, believing that the forest actually moved, while others put their money on terrifying creatures and haunting spirits. One of the most intense rumors was that of a Wendigo in the forests, an unnamed monster that fed on human flesh. The words circulated were enough to send chills up a man’s spine, but innocent as he was, Lerato ignored the rumors.
After all, he grew up in a forest that was seemingly far more intimidating than this shadowy grove.
In the end, Lerato was glad he had ventured out. The lack of others had let the forest grow and shape itself unlike most other forests the world had to offer. Despite popular belief, it was alive. There was more life in the Forbidden Forest than anywhere else he had seen on the island, for so many creatures flocked here to escape scrutinizing eyes.
The ghoulish trees, for a time, whispered frightening nothings as he passed… but now, they were simply discussing their days. Goblins, trolls, and other creatures were thankful for the accepting company, and Lerato found himself in conversation after enlightening conversation. Really, that one faceless monster was quite intelligent, apparently considering enrollment to the Academy to work towards a law degree. Sure, his lanky arms and jagged claws were startling, but it was rude to judge a book by it’s cover.
Overall, Lerato thought the forest had an unnecessarily bad reputation. These guys were cool, and he would have to try to calm a bit of the stigma.
With so many pleasant interactions, Lerato had let his guard down. Though he could sense all life forces around him, he had no way of differentiating between their positions or intentions. He was no longer on the watch for threats, simply enjoying the dark and terrifying setting, and he was vulnerable.
He laughed silently at an undead squirrel’s jokes about nut storage and how, really, they only did it now for the sake of tradition.
Lerato Jaye was the perfect little victim, his black and purple crown of wildflowers and all.