BookClub logo

Whisper in the Woods

By Kathy Frizzell, Aka. Chantel Inch.

By Pseudonym “Kathy,” though my legal name is Chantel.Published 2 years ago 16 min read
Memories

We are introduced to the main character and the circumstances they usually find themselves in. It’s important to establish the baseline of their ordinary life and the world they occupy before delving into the heart of the story. To make justice possible, the main character must get new knowledge. The process of learning involves a change within oneself, which can be achieved. The coveted object the protagonist has been seeking is unveiled as evil or damaging.

Main Characters: The cast of characters features Raistlin (Mage), Gold-Moon (Elf-Sorceress), Blade (Vampire), Raven-Wolf (Druid-Cleric), Tasslehoff (Karakorum-Warlock), Luna, and Spirit-Walker.

The “Flaming Blue Arrow” is also known as the “Raven’s Bone” and symbolizes social order and justice.

In the story, Raven-Wolf is an investigative journalist/criminalist. The plot delves into the horrifying and gruesome aspects of the human mind. The narrative unfolds in the calm woods with the slaying of “Hades,” and the watcher, also known as “Raven’s Eye over the Dead,” carries a dead letter. Deep beneath the Netherlands, that was hidden away. A dead letter holds the hidden truth about mythological creatures.

Stay relaxed, keep your coffee nearby, and be sure to return.

In the Netherlands, Raven-Wolf, Blade, Luna, and Raistlin are celebrated as they return with precious treasure and invaluable wisdom.

It’s a relief that the Hero’s journey is over and they can go home. Having completed their expedition, they come back as a different individual, having undergone personal growth and maturation.

In the journey of resurrection, they may learn that their initial desires were not their true necessities - by abandoning those desires, they encounter Luna Spirit-Walker and gain a profound insight into the real significance of mythical creatures’ lives.

Chapter 1. “The Arcane Scrolls”

Long ago, when I was little, my family inherited this old “Castle,” because we were from the royal family, we were treated as such!

KRYNN is where I come from. I had unique talents in my dream. If some would say {Magic is real or fake in the holder! That’s something best left in the realm of fantasy!

My parents have entrusted me with the well-being of the residents of “Castle Rock” and the land on the seashore near the mountains.

My name is “Raven-Wolf,” and I have long flaming blue/green hair, porcelain white skin, {dark hour-glass,} purple eyes, graceful, cold, aloof, and imperious.

Being an “Elf” is {exciting and exhausting}, and some would say I am running away from lies!

Walking in this old castle, sometimes with wild dreams, I could not fight the feeling that it was haunted. Tonight proved that “Raven-Wolf” was not dreaming. Standing right in front was a portal!

Curiosity got the better of me. “Raven-Wolf” walked through a creepy feeling and came across that “Raven-Wolf,” said to myself {we are not in Kansas anymore.}

Laughing, I looked around and felt that “Raven-Wolf” was not alone. Suddenly, my mood got a little darker.

I saw things around me that looked fake, but something inside me said that was not so and that “Raven-Wolf” should listen to the inside voice in my head.

But “Raven-Wolf” did nothing and kept walking until I was back in my room in the castle. That was weird.

My room was dark; it was bedtime, and I felt sleepy.

Sleep was not that graceful that night; tossed and turned all night!

Waking early this morning, I was lazy getting up, finely dragged my ass out of bed and slowly walked down this long corridor; not to my surprise, this old feeling that was dreaming came back?

This was no dream; “Raven-Wolf,” was in the portal, and looking down at me was an old friend.

Picking me up, “Blade,” said what are you doing down there?

Let me tell you about “Blade,” who is a {Vampire}, and what he is. Blades, and the heart-dragon spear all have the strengths and weaknesses of a vampire. Attire; They possess traits like immortality, fearlessness, and a hint of mystique, but they are weakened by dead-man’s blood , or be killed, and have a weakness for garlic. Long, wave black hair, red eyes, porcelain skin, and an ear piercing are distinguishing features of the day-walker, who is unaffected by the sun unlike other vampires.

Sadly, and I said, don’t know!

Startled and still shaken from my bed by horrifying nightmares, I unexpectedly found myself at the gateway to a smiling old friend.

I’m unsure about everything and feeling completely lost. I was invited by Blade to come to his home nearby for a conversation.

Were you raised on stories about the haunted forest, mythical creatures, and mischievous elves? In the forgotten realms, nothing positive ever happens, and gnomes and fairies are often portrayed as evil.

That’s how we began chatting non-stop until dawn. “Blade” responded to the chilly temperature by adding more wood to the fire and making a snack. As we were enjoying our meal, we were startled by a noise!

He neglected his knowledge of being a {Vampire} and the abilities associated with the dark side.

I felt a troublesome sensation that shook me to my very core!

During an a prior dream, “Raven-Wolf” remembered, and “Blade” inquired about their thoughts, despite his ability to read my thoughts.

“Blade” had no desire to invade my personal space.

It was so bizarre that I couldn’t even find the words. Another chill ran through my body. Is the cold bothering you? “Raven-Wolf?” Blade questioned.

To warm up, “Blade” advised putting more wood in the fireplace.

When I woke up again, I was at home. It was all just a dream, and that did not happen. But it did because “Blade was in the shadows.”

Something seems off, and I’m curious to know the reason behind it.

Is it likely that Blade, being a vampire with dark powers, is involved in this? Because my parents were deceased, I descended alone to the old castle that now belonged to “Raven-Wolf.”

It was already time for lunch; this old castle was tranquil and cold.

I went to the library deep in the old castle, sat down, scoped the bookshelf, tried a novel, and went to put more wood in the fire. Suddenly, {Raven-Wolf} was startled by a loud bang. Just then, a scroll fell from the shelf, ignoring that loud bang and opening it slowly.

Upon entering and leaving the hall, I witnessed the candle-flame and its mirrored image inside the flame twisting and readjusting. Removing my hat, I approached at a leisurely pace. With each step, my boots caused the floorboards to creak. In the dark glass, I stood wearing a black suit, with pale lilies leaning from the cutlass vase.

Awakening from this horrific nightmare, drenched in sweat, I now sit in pitch-blackness, with only the faint flicker of an oil lamp for illumination.

While I was deep in thought, a glimmer caught my attention. Mistaking shadows for my reflection, I reached for my blankets to summon the sandman.

I didn’t wake up until the early morning, then I cleared my eyes and completed my usual morning routine.

My first task was to add wood to the fireplace, then I moved to the kitchen to start the kettle and cook breakfast.

While I waited for the kettle to pop, I went outside to fetch the newspaper and savored the smell of the ocean breeze.

At the dining table in the castle, a scroll was sent flying by a gust of wind from the bookshelf.

My curiosity got the best of me, but before I could open the scroll, the phone interrupted me with its ring. I was already startled by the scroll falling from the bookshelf and was shocked when it landed on my foot.

While absorbed in reading the scroll, a spine-chilling feeling of recognition swept over me, and at that very moment, I vanished into thin air, leaving only a cloud of smoke behind.

“Raven-Wolf” tried to clear the smoke that remained, holding the scroll in my hand and grabbing a tallow candle to begin exploring.

Reaching the tunnel’s end, I noticed “Blade” surreptitiously hiding in the shadows, attempting to remain unnoticed by both me and others.

“Raven-Wolf,” silently called out to avoid disturbance, since we realized there were others in the smoke cave.

Asserting his loyalty, “Blade” made it clear that he would always be there for me, stepping out from the shadows.

“Blade” took the first step as we reached a closed door because he was a “Vampire” and “Raven-Wolf” didn’t argue.

With caution, the door emitted a soft creak, taking care not to give away the presence of the living to the unfamiliar creatures.

We walked in and found ourselves faced with a hidden passage and a flight of stairs that led to a crypt.

Chapter 2. “The Hidden Passage.”

By Stefan Steinbauer on Unsplash

As the vapor dissipated, I recognized my surroundings and stumbled upon a hidden corridor.

I find myself surrounded by a crypt, embarking on a journey that will be long.

As I embarked on this lengthy journey, I was accompanied by an eerie presence and caught sight of a door, faintly illuminated by a shimmering light.

When I opened the door, my shoulder was suddenly touched by a hand. “Blade” solidified his position as a loyal friend when he sensed I was in trouble and was there for me.

Thankfully, he was on guard because while exploring the crypt; we heard a noise and glimpsed shadows approaching us.

With that in mind, we both hurried into a stairwell as an icy breeze brushed past us, and I had the feeling that someone or something caught my attention.

“Raven-Wolf” considered it the strangest feeling ever, and because we were trapped, we both resolved to venture further into the crypt. Hence, we move with caution to avoid any known mythological or supernatural entities.

At the far end of the crypt, a dim light illuminated our path, and it became increasingly clear that we had company as we drew nearer.

Hidden within the shadows are the secrets of “Blade,” where “Raistlin” and “Raven-Wolf” once met at the crossroads.

Raistlin, the Mage, adorns himself in a purple cloak and sandals. He carries weapons and possesses the hands of a ferryman. With his deep knowledge, fearlessness, ruthlessness, and mythological traits, he also exhibits a godly nature, impeccable morality, red skin, and eyes of gold.

Where “Blade,” disappeared into the shadows and leaving “Raistlin introduced me {Raven-Wolf,} to Tasslehoff.”

With his blue skin, short stature, black eyes, and Grey Hair, Tasslehoff, also known as Karakorum-Warlock, stands out. He usually wears leather pants and a leather top, carries a staff, and prefers to go barefoot. Sneakiness, craftiness, fearfulness, and bashfulness are all traits associated with the trickster archetype.

While the three of us were seated, a server approached our table and asked if she could bring us anything. Raistlin, Raven-Wolf, replied, “We would like rations.”

At the moment “Raven-Wolf” was about to reveal the map from her pocket, the server appeared and brought our rations.

As we were about to finish, Raistlin asked what are you doing with their Raven-Wolf? Just as Raven-Wolf was about to reply, a bashfulness of excitement caused him to jump up and down.

What’s got you acting crazy? Raistlin asked? “Raven-Wolf” was irritated and somewhat furious to learn that “Tasslehoff” had been snooping and behaving like a thief.

“Tasslehoff,” he said apologetically, “I didn’t intend to upset you. I simply wished that you would show us now, if possible.”

Guess, Raven-Wolf, the time is now; I said sharply. “Raistlin,” I’m sorry, but that wasn’t meant for you. “Tasslehoff” looked down, feeling ashamed, and following the lead of “Raven-Wolf,” “Tasslehoff” said: {I remember this place!}

“The comment made by Tasslehoff led to a peculiar exchange of looks between Raven-Wolf and Raistlin.”

In that instant, the server came back to our table, cleared it, and asked if there was anything else we needed.

The truth about my job title, Journalist/Criminality, was something “Raven-Wolf” didn’t reveal to {Tasslehoff, Raistlin}.

Although “Raistlin” was once my closest friend, we became distant, and I didn’t know “Tasslehoff” at all.

With the crossroads now quiet and “Tasslehoff” no longer bouncing, all three were focused on the map in front of them.

Therefore, while three individuals were observing the map, a note was sent to “Raven-Wolf,” advising them to be wary.

{Note: Unexpected Turn: The Object of Desire is Sinister: The protagonist’s pursuit takes a dark turn as they come to realize that what they have been yearning for is sinister or harmful.}

Do all three members of the group unanimously agree to confront this challenge directly and embark on this adventure?

Despite starting our quest, we find ourselves at a standstill, with full bellies, but now it’s time to gather our belongings and continue.

Exploring the depths of horror and gruesomeness, investigative journalist “Raven-Wolf,” focuses on the human mind. Deep underground in the Netherlands, it remained hidden. Dead letter reveals the hidden truth behind mythological creatures.

Mythological creatures often include goddesses and demigoddesses, such as the demon goddess of Mesopotamian mythology. This unique being had a pregnant body, thick hair, two skulls on her breasts, a snake’s tail, large wings, three eyes, and talon feet. The head of this beast was rumored to be a jackal, lioness, snake, or hawk, depending on which account you consult.

https://youtu.be/2qIbb3otans From ancient times to the present, the world has been captivated by stories of mythical beings. Innumerable of these creatures were perceived as remarkable and awe-inspiring. There must also be a contrasting side, home to daunting mythological entities. Through the passive art of storytelling, horror myths entice us by exploiting our fears and insecurities, potentially serving as a cautionary message.

Chapter 3. “The Blade in the North!”

“Raven-Wolf” and “Gold-Moon” have a meeting arranged by “Tasslehoff.”

Gold-Moon, a Dark-Elf Sorceress, switches between a neoclassical dress and a nighttime outfit that includes a crop-top, ripped pants, cowboy boots, and a purple cloak. She carries magic-books, short blades, and a flaming bow with arrows. Recognized for her red/blue pigtails, flawless skin tone, and yellow eyes, she possesses a charismatic, brilliant, adventurous, strong, idiosyncratic, and whimsical character.

The goal of the protagonist in “Gold-Moon” is justice, and they need to gain new knowledge in order to achieve it. Learning involves a change in perspective, validation, or redemption. “Gold-Moon,” “Tasslehoff {Karakorum-Warlock},” and the next day - little did she realize her journey had already started.

As we talk about the exploration, a new challenge presents itself as an old letter discloses the hidden reality of mythological creatures. During an unexpected meeting, “Raven-Wolf” encounters a familiar face named “Hades” and realizes Hades’ demise in the serene forest. In this forest, there is a guardian named “Raven’s Eye over the Dead” who possesses a letter from the deceased. Unseen and tucked away underground in the Netherlands, it stayed hidden.

Right then, “Raven-Wolf” kept a hidden piece of the letter away from “Gold-Moon” and “Tasslehoff!”

The lack of knowledge regarding “Tasslehoff” or “Gold-Moon” stemmed from “Raven-Wolf’s” role as a journalist/criminal.

Even though we discovered a corpse, we found a blade lodged in his body and a letter placed on his chest.

Despite the obstacles ahead, the protagonist is prepared to join Gold-Moon and Tasslehoff on their quest.

“Raven-Wolf” felt obligated to take part in the adventure because of her role as a journalist/criminal, whereas “Gold-Moon” and “Tasslehoff” decided on their own.

“Gold-Moon and Tasslehoff” might have doubts about their readiness and preparedness for the upcoming events. Despite their initial reluctance, they eventually choose to go on the adventure with the “Raven-Wolf.”

In that instant, the body vanished into the woods, and our journey as “Tasslehoff, Gold-Moon, and Raven-Wolf” began with a quick tremor.

The “Flaming Blue Arrow,” known as the “Raven’s Bone,” represents social order and justice. It materialized at Raven-Wolf’s feet as we exchanged glances, and now “Raven’s Eye over the Dead” holds a letter from the deceased. Concealed beneath the surface in the Netherlands, it remained unseen and tucked away.

Following the blade, we find our way forward. Engage in the mission immediately.

Chapter 4. Whisper in the Night.

Raven-Wolf (Druid-Cleric), Tasslehoff (Karakorum-Warlock), and Gold-Moon (Elf-Sorceress) meet a Phoenix while trapped in a novel.

While wandering, Raven-Wolf (Druid-Cleric), Gold-Moon (Elf-Sorceress), and Tasslehoff (Karakorum-Warlock) realize their confinement within the novel. While making our escape from the Phoenix, a wall of fire appeared right where we had been standing. Thoughts encompassing everlasting life, coming back to life, and the world beyond.

Magic, mythological spells, and witchery were the focus of the book that we couldn’t put down.

Although there is no supporting evidence, the origin of these legends must have some rationale. Mostly, legends are based on actual events.

The origins of belief in witchcraft in Europe can be found in classical antiquity. Women accused of witchcraft in medieval and early modern Europe were commonly thought to have used black magic or malefic against their own community.

{In Wabanaki folklore, the ghost-witch, also referred to as skadegamutc or skudakumooch, plays a significant role within the tribes, including the Maliseet, Passamaquoddy, and Abenaki. Like the vampires in European folklore, the ghost-witch is a skeletal being that emerges after dark to prey on the living.}  Quote: https://www.se.edu/native-american/wp-content/uploads/sites/49/2020/06/3Good-and-Evil-in-Native-American-Mythology.pdf}

Virginia saw the first witchcraft allegations against an English settler in the British North American colonies in September 1626. Joan Wright, the accused, was a midwife and married woman hailing from James City County (later Curry County)

Islamic mythology connects the phoenix to the and ʿanqāʾ (sīmorgh), a mythical bird that was initially created by God with all its perfections but later turned into a bringer of misfortune and met its end. Phoenix.

As they set out on their quest, “Raven-Wolf, Gold-Moon, and Tasslehoff” found themselves faced with a fork in the road after departing from the crossroads, where they had prepared with supplies.

Trusting her intuition, “Gold-Moon” made the right decision to veer off the beaten path.

Upon realizing that Gold-Moon was absent, Tasslehoff jumped up and down in an attempt to get Raven-Wolf’s attention.

Now that “Tasslehoff” has the attention of “Raven-Wolf,” we found “Gold-Moon” and she yelled at us to get down!

As we obeyed, a massive, heavy-footed entity was lurking nearby. We quickly hid just in time to witness a phoenix emerging.

A colossal, heavy-footed phoenix entity discovered us, leaving us with no option to flee.

Tasslehoff, demonstrating his sneakiness and craftiness, utilized his technique to redirect the phoenix’s focus, enabling “Gold-Moon, and {Raven-Wolf,}” to flee while remaining hidden.

While escaping from the phoenix, I noticed a figure lurking in the shadows, going by the name “Raven-Wolf,” which caught my attention as a journalist. In light of the disturbing noise, we were all ensnared in a labyrinth, and according to “Gold-Moon,” it seems certain that we will be held captive.

Captivated by the phoenix, we found ourselves confined within a novel. “Tasslehoff” is thoroughly perplexed and inquisitive about what is taking place. “Raven-Wolf” uttered, {could you both please remain quiet, allowing me to think}, at that moment “Tasslehoff” hurried away and “Gold-Moon” started searching.

Now that they were gone, “Raven-Wolf” found herself deep in thought about the situation. Suddenly, the events of the novel started to swarm around her, and she had a strong sense of familiarity. It turned out she had already had a nightmare about this exact scenario.

“Raven-Wolf” let out a piercing shriek, causing “Gold-Moon” and “Tasslehoff” to spring into action. As we raced towards one another, a vibrant, magical glow encased us in its fiery embrace.

Released from the fiery grip, we come face to face with Luna, Spirit-Walker, the person who revealed themselves to be “Raven-Wolf, Tasslehoff, and Gold-Moon.” With fiery red hair, pale skin, and eyes as white as snow, Luna exudes an enchanting aura. Through their choice of clothing, which includes leather pants, a torn t-shirt, and a tattooed arm band, they proudly represent their Indigenous heritage. The presence of a hidden depth is hinted at by their dark glasses and concealed cloak. The distinct style is further emphasized by the moccasin boots, which are crafted from deer hide. Noteworthy attributes encompass clarity of thought, discipline, freethinking, and the ability to commune with spirits, leading to the rescue of “Raven-Wolf, Gold-Moon, Tasslehoff.”

A sense of comfort enveloped {Raven-Wolf, Tasslehoff, and Gold-Moon} as they gathered around the fire in the Luna {Spirit-Walker} wigwam, an Indigenous dome-shaped dwelling.

Chapter 5. Mythological Creatures Fact or False.

As the protagonist leaves their ordinary world and steps into “the special world,” they may experience a sense of confusion due to the unfamiliar reality and its unique rules. This stage is usually one of the longest in the story, as our main character becomes acclimated to their new surroundings and faces a string of minor conflicts that obstruct their path to success.

Chaos is a result of criminal behavior, while the pursuit of justice restores social order.

During our conversation with the “Luna {spirit-walker},” we found ourselves surrounded by dark spirits, and unexpectedly, {Blade {Vampire} made an appearance.

When Raven-Wolf, Tasslehoff, and Gold-Moon were on the verge of pilfering our rations, Luna {Spirit-Walker} came forward with a proper meal.

During mealtime, Luna, referred to as Spirit-Walker, was telling the story of the paranormal events occurring in her village. Being a truth finder, she was aware of the truth about Raven-Wolf, the journalist/criminal-minds.

Fairy tales entering the literary tradition brought more than just moral aspects to the forefront. They underwent changes and revisions to eradicate the unpleasant portions—or as some individuals would phrase it, censored and purged.

There were distinct originals that were uncomfortably reminiscent of the horror found in nonfiction.

In America, witchcraft, which incorporates Wicca, paganism, folk magic, and other New Age traditions, is emerging as one of the fastest-growing spiritual paths.

In folklore and legends, a legendary creature (also called a mythical or mythological creature) is a type of fantasy being that is typically a hybrid of different creatures. Although not proven to be real, these creatures may be mentioned in historical accounts prior to modernity.

Although myths and folklore about magic and witches are often dismissed as false, fairy tales such as Little Jack Horner and Hansel and Gretel contain elements of truth. Behind various fairy tales lie the uncomfortable historical events that inspired them. Today’s little ones and even some adults might find these darker stories too frightening.

The act of yawning caught on when “Tasslehoff” started doing it. The rest of the group followed suit. Luna observed, “Looks like you guys could use some time to rest.”

Vocal Book Club

About the Creator

Pseudonym “Kathy,” though my legal name is Chantel.

Focusing my understanding of history on the compelling concept of a second chance at life, my traditions of the High Priestess-Druid, the Artificer (Blood-Hunter), and the Cleric-Truth of {Germanic-Clan.} I walk alone, to not "Giving Up!"

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments (1)

Sign in to comment
  • Moharif Yulianto2 years ago

    Interesting article so long, how many days did it take?

Find us on social media

Miscellaneous links

  • Explore
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Support

© 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.