[ IP ] Into the depts of the Unknown

Can you hear it? Softly, all around you: *Lub-dub, lub-dub, lub-dub. * It is the pulse of the Bloodbriar, the Heartwood. The Forest breathes. It knows you are here. 
 
 Do you dare continue? Traveler, beware. If you wander into the depths of the unknown within, you may not return. The way is winding and the trees are vicious and thirsty. If you do find your way out of the labyrinth, you will not be the same. 
 
 *I must. * 
 
 Then you will need this, Traveler. This cloak is made of bark-cloth. See the color, rust and blood? It is made from the Wood itself. Time has faded it, but it will protect you better than any armor in the Wood. The trees do not feed from their own. 
 
 *Did you make it? * 
 
 You flatter an old woman, Traveler. But yes, it was I. From long ago when I was young and spry and foolhardy, as you are, and fancied myself immortal. How time has proven differently! 
 
 *It is a generous gift. My thanks. * 
 
 Bah! It is a wicked curse if ever there was one. You will certainly go into the Wood now, and if you live you may not wish to thank me in the end. 
 
 *All the same. * 
 
 Yes, yes. Now leave me be, Traveler. Get you gone. But one more thing: if you find yourself lost, climb. Touching the trees is risky, but it is more dangerous to wander and retrace your steps. The same tree may not be fooled twice. 
 
 *I will remember. *
