The Forest Trolls

The trolls act as guardians of a narrow, broken bridge that Sterling and his friends must cross. When approached, the trolls refuse to let them pass unless they can prove they are united as friends. The trolls are mean-spirited at first, trying to split the group with riddles, fear, and arguments. But when Sterling and his friends demonstrate unwavering loyalty and teamwork, the trolls are moved—and the path forward is revealed.

Character Profile

Name: The Trolls of the Crumbling Bridge
Chapter: 5 – The Friendship Key
Realm: The Shadowed Crossing (a broken stone bridge deep in the forest)

✨ Personality Traits (At Reveled)

Lonely

Misunderstood

Deeply emotional

Longing for connection

Capable of change

✨ Personality Traits (At First)

Grumpy

Suspicious

Intimidating

Stubborn

Guarded

🎀 Appearance:

Large, rough-skinned creatures with moss-covered backs and glowing yellow eyes. Their stony features are cracked and weathered like ancient rocks. Some wear tangled vines as belts and carry heavy wooden clubs, more for show than for use.

Key Lesson taughts

True friendship can overcome even the toughest obstacles

Unity brings strength in moments of trial

Sometimes those who seem mean are simply misunderstood or hurting

Working together opens doors (and bridges!) that seem impossible

Special Abilities:

Strength to move fallen boulders and reshape the earth

Can control the stability of bridges and pathways in the forest

Use deep voices that echo and tremble the ground

Sense disunity or disharmony in those who approach them

Character Symbolism:

The trolls represent the internal doubts and external challenges that test friendships. They are the living embodiment of conflict, but also the potential for transformation when faced with kindness, patience, and unity.

Friendship Connection

By overcoming the challenge of the trolls, Sterling and his friends form a deeper bond. They realize that even when they disagree or face fear, their strength lies in standing together.