The Forest Whistler
"Guys, we should probably find a different place to camp before it gets too dark." "What, are you seriously afraid of a small forest? That dumb tale is totally a bunch of nonsense." "Well...If you're sure." "It'll be fine Kanna, do you want to explore that possibly cool tower or not?"
A relatively new folk tale, this legend is a favorite among young people who enjoy spooking each other. Parents use it to warn their children of the dangers of wandering into the woods. It started off as a regional tale associated with the Whistling Wilds. Over time it became a wider used scary story that could happen in any patch of trees.
Be wary of the forest, children, for there are many beasts and dangers lurking in the trees. One particularly nasty fellow can only be heard and never seen. We call him the Forest Whistler. If you ever do need to pass through the woods, NEVER do so on a foggy night. If any rolls in while you're already inside, make haste and leave to a safer area. The whistler always works in the fog. You'll know he's near when a sharp, bouncy tune carries on the wind. It's nearly impossible to figure out the direction. Once you hear the tune all 'round, it's most certainly too late. That's when he'll strike and spirit you away to another plane, never to be seen again!
Omari's forests can be just as dangerous as they are beautiful. Search and rescue teams have grown efficient over the years, but there are still numerous unsolved missing person cases. Locals use this tale and others like it to dissuade their loved ones from being too risky on their adventures. It's also a way to try and explain what happened to those lost in the wilderness without leaving behind a single clue.
Truth Behind Myth
The full truth behind the original legend is much less ominous. Deep within the Whistling Wilds is a weathered tower. Inside that building resides an elderly, elven wizard who's grown irritable over the years. Many a spry adventurer has traversed the forest to bother him and attempt to "explore" his home. Having grown tired of this, he resorted to using magic to make the fake fog and whistle sound as a possible deterrent without posing any real danger.
Can I just say how much I love this myth? Especially the truth behind it. Such a clever idea! Well done.