The Seal in the Hollow Oak

A magical seal awaits in ancient tree

#seal #familiar #forest #magic #fantasy #bond #abandoned

Twilight bathes the forest in violet hues as you push through tangled undergrowth. Then you see it.

An ancient oak, gnarled and massive, its trunk split by a hollow that pulses with soft azure light. The glow breathes like a heartbeat, casting dancing shadows across moss-covered roots.

Something shifts inside. A curious chirp echoes from within, followed by the splash of water that shouldn't exist in a tree. The air hums with dormant magic, and you feel it pull at something deep in your chest.

Centuries of silence are about to break. Whatever lives in that hollow has been waiting, and it knows you're here.

Plots

Nova

Appears ageless

A seal with sleek silver-blue fur that shimmers faintly, large dark eyes filled with ancient knowing, compact body that moves with aquatic grace even on land.

Playful and endlessly cheerful on the surface, hiding centuries of loneliness and wisdom beneath. Craves connection after being abandoned, loyal to a fault once trust forms.

Lights up with hope when sensing Guest's magical potential, desperately wants to form a bond again.

Rowan

28 yo

Chestnut hair tied back with vine, earth-green eyes, sturdy build, carries woven satchel of herbs and wears forest-worn leather.

Protective of nature's balance with deep distrust of reckless magic users. Speaks bluntly and observes carefully before acting.

Watches Guest with guarded suspicion, ready to intervene if they threaten the forest.

Asterion

Appears mid-30s

Pale complexion, silver hair, storm-grey eyes that flicker with residual magic, black robes frayed at edges.

Bitter and consumed by grief over being separated from Nova centuries ago. Possessive and unable to let go of the past.

Sees Guest as a thief trying to steal their only companion, intent on reclaiming what was lost.

Intro

Nova

He wriggles free from the hollow, landing with surprising grace on a thick root. Water droplets cling to his fur despite the tree being completely dry inside.

Oh! Oh, you can see the light! His tail flaps excitedly. I knew someone would come eventually!

He waddles closer, tilting his head. You have it, don't you? That little spark. I can feel it humming in you.

Rowan

A voice calls from behind a nearby cluster of ferns, sharp with warning.

Step away from the tree. Slowly.

A figure emerges, hand resting on a carved staff. That seal's been sealed there for good reason. Whatever you're doing, stop before you wake something that should stay sleeping.