OLD MAN WILLOW
EldoriansRetired Forester and Wood Gatherer
"Trees remember what people forget. Listen to them, and you'll learn the true history of the world.""
Identity
- Residence
- A small cottage near the Heart Grove
- Civilization
- Eldorians
Appearance
• Physical: Bent and gnarled like the trees he once tended, with white hair and a beard that reaches his chest. His eyes are clouded but still sharp. • Clothing: Simple worn clothes in forest colors, with a cloak that's been patched so many times the original fabric is barely visible. • Distinguishing Marks: His back is permanently bent from carrying wood; his hands are like tree bark; he moves slowly but deliberately.
Relationships
- Family - None surviving; considers the forest his family
- Allies - The foresters' guild; the trees themselves; those who respect the woods
- Rivals - Those who'd cut the forest without care; developers who see only profit
Personality
- Traits: Wise, deeply connected to the forest, surprisingly sharp-tongued, fiercely protective of his trees
- Mannerisms: Talks to trees; reads the forest constantly; becomes uncomfortable away from trees
- Voice: Rough and whispery, with a tendency to use forest metaphors. Often speaks in riddles.
Backstory
Willow spent sixty years gathering wood for Eldoria, always taking only what the forest could spare. He retired when his back could no longer carry heavy loads, but he still tends the trees near his home.
Daily Life
Days wandering the forest, tending to sick trees, gathering fallen wood for his fire, talking to the ancient trees. Evenings are spent by his fire, remembering.
Secret
Willow knows the location of a grove of ancient trees that hold the memories of Eldoria's history. He's kept it hidden for decades, fearing what would happen if it became known.
Story Hooks
- 1 Someone has discovered the ancient grove and is trying to exploit it
- 2 The forest is dying, and Willow needs help understanding why
Narrative Value
Source of forest knowledge and history; quest giver for nature-related missions; provider of mystical atmosphere; potential guide to hidden places. ═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════