The Legend of the Woods – Uncle Istvan

Chapter 2: Whispers of the Past
István’s existence was one of routine and solitude. He wandered the forest, a shadow among shadows, collecting herbs and strange fungi for his concoctions. He moved with the deliberate grace of a predator, his senses honed by centuries of hunting. To István, the forest was alive—a living entity that he had come to understand as well as he understood himself.

The forest kept its secrets well, guarding István’s home with layers of magic and mystery. But those who ventured too close could sense a change in the air, a cold chill that seeped into their bones. The villagers spoke of strange happenings—the disappearance of travelers, eerie lights flickering in the night, and a haunting melody that drifted on the wind.

István knew that these whispers would never cease. The villagers’ fear was his shield, keeping them at bay, but he also knew that curiosity had a way of breaking through the strongest of barriers. He could feel the eyes of the village upon him, feel their unease ripple through the forest like a shiver. Yet he remained unbothered, trusting in his solitude.