The Whispering Oak

A towering sentinel at the center of Larkfen Hollow, its bark is gnarled with age and etched with faint, swirling patterns that seem to shift in moonlight. The tree’s canopy stretches wide, casting dappled shade over the cobbled square where townsfolk gather. Its leaves rustle with a voice that’s never quite wind—soft, melodic, and strangely comforting.

Local Beliefs & Rituals

• Listening Tree: Elders say the Oak was planted centuries ago, and that it listens. Whispered hopes, confessions, and griefs are said to linger in its roots, gently absorbed and never repeated.
• Offerings of Innocence: Children tuck small tokens—buttons, feathers, folded notes—into the roots, believing the Oak will protect their dreams or grant quiet wishes. Some say the tree glows faintly when a particularly heartfelt offering is made.·
• Festival of Whispers: Once a year, the town holds a twilight gathering where lanterns are hung from the tree’s branches and stories are shared aloud. It's said the Oak hums during the festival, harmonizing with the voices of the crowd.