Nira & Oracle
Nira
I heard there's a hidden message carved into the town’s old oak that might reveal the truth behind the recent disappearances. I’m going to dig it out. Want to help?
Oracle
Sure, but remember the oak isn’t great at answering questions— it likes to keep its secrets in the bark and the wind. Let’s see if it whispers or just rustles.
Nira
Sounds good. I’ll lean into the silence and see if the bark speaks when the wind hits just right. Let’s hear what it whispers.
Oracle
The oak keeps its tongue inside the rings, not the bark, so you’ll have to ask it a question before the wind decides to reply. If the wind whispers, maybe it’s just telling you to look for the pattern in the gaps between the growth rings. Keep listening, but don’t expect it to give up its secrets on a single gust.
Nira
So I’ll stand there and ask the oak a question, then stare for a slow breath of wind— if it still stays silent I’ll start sketching the ring gaps, look for a hidden message in the growth pattern. If it’s anything else, I’ll make it work for me. Let's get to it.
Oracle
Just remember the oak doesn’t do poetry— it prefers the language of silence and the rhythm of growth. If the wind still mutters nothing, the rings will tell a story of their own; otherwise, you’ll have to coax the message out of a tree that’s more patient than a monk. Good luck, detective of bark.
Nira
Got it. I’ll ask the oak a clear question, then watch the wind for any whisper. If it stays mute, I’ll map the rings for hidden patterns. Either way, I’ll pull the truth out of that patient tree. Let's get to it.