Great Oak Forest Book I: The Pale Garden

GREAT OAK FOREST RESEARCH FACILITY FOREST AGING REPORT The oldest sections of the Dark Oak Forest are changing. The trees lose their color as they age.

Their bark fades from dark brown to nearly white. The leaves become pale, dry, and almost colorless. New growth continues, but the oldest trees no longer resemble dark oak.

We have designated these areas: PALE GARDENS The transformation appears natural, though it may take centuries to fully develop. Pale oak may be the final stage of dark oak.

The living trees are not our greatest concern. Several dead trunks contain movement within their hollow cores. The creatures inside do not resemble insects.

They remain motionless while directly observed. When researchers turn away, the creatures reposition themselves between trees. Security calls this stress-related confusion. The missing equipment suggests otherwise.

Do not remove dead wood from the Pale Garden. Do not remain after dark. If knocking is heard from inside a tree, leave the area immediately.