Great White Stag

location: The whispering Lakes

Description: The Great White Stag is a majestic, almost mythical creature. Its coat is pure white, shimmering like fresh snow even in the gloom of the forest. Its antlers are massive, like the branches of an ancient tree, covered in silver lichen. It moves with a grace and silence that defies its size.

Behavior: The Great White Stag is a symbol of the old spirits of the forest. It is said that seeing the stag brings good fortune, but to harm it is to curse oneself. The villagers believe the stag knows the ancient paths of the forest and can traverse even the darkest parts untouched by the corruption.

Rumors: Some say the stag is a guardian, sent by the Moonbound Spirits to watch over the forest. It’s whispered that the stag’s blood holds potent magical properties, capable of healing even the deepest wounds, but no one has dared to hunt it.

"My grandmother once told me," the old woman began, leaning closer to the fire, her voice hushed and reverent, "about the night she found herself lost deep within the heart of the Gloomwood. The moon had abandoned her, and every path she took led deeper into darkness. Just as she felt despair’s cold hand upon her shoulder, she saw him."

"Through a gap in the trees he stepped, tall and proud—the Great White Stag. His coat shone softly, like woven moonlight, antlers branching high into the darkness, crowned with leaves of silver. He moved quietly, gracefully, watching her with ancient, knowing eyes."

"She dared not speak, barely even breathe, afraid to shatter that moment. The stag turned silently, guiding her through tangled roots and twisting paths. Wherever his hooves touched, the forest seemed to sigh gently, opening the way."

"When she emerged safely at the edge of the wood, she looked back just once. The stag stood quietly, half-hidden among the shadows, watching. He nodded once, solemn and gentle, then vanished as quietly as he had appeared."

"Never saw him again, my grandmother," the old woman finished softly, "but she never forgot his kindness. And neither should we."