Important Characters
Elara Croft
The Weary Shepherd
The town's resolute mayor for over 30 years. She is highly suspicious of outsiders, believing their presence threatens the delicate balance she maintains with the Gravewood. She is the gatekeeper to the town's goodwill.
Old Man Hemlock
The Hedge-Witch
An ancient, wiry man who lives on the edge of the forest. He is the town's spiritual interpreter and understands the Gravewood's whispers. He is cautious of powerful outsiders who might try to "fix" the forest, which he fears would lead to catastrophe.
The Briarwood Family
Wardens of the Gravewood
The family that holds the dangerous duty of harvesting the valuable Ironwood from the Gravewood. Led by the grim patriarch Tevan, they are a powerful, quiet force in the community. His son, Kael, is a rebellious young man who longs to break free from tradition.
The Zhang Family
The Alchemists
The town's alchemists and healers. The matriarch, Lin, uses ancient knowledge to create poultices and special reagents. Her daughter, Mei, is the town's unofficial Lorekeeper, documenting the town's history to find understanding in its traditions.