Chapter 28: Searching for the Mana Source
Although Arcaiste was suspicious of Abyss’s true nature, he had witnessed his power in the Ossi Kingdom and had decided to trust him, at least for now. As an outsider (or so he claimed), Abyss wouldn’t normally be allowed near the sacred tree, let alone touch it. But with Arcaiste’s permission, he and his followers could examine it freely, even climb it or fly around it, as long as they didn’t harm it.
After being shown to their temporary accommodations by a few Druids, Abyss, accompanied by the girls, began their investigation.
The sacred tree was truly massive, perhaps the largest living organism in Hai-Teweru, dwarfing even ancient giants. Examining its entirety at once was impossible. Abyss used wind magic to lift them into the air, slowly circling the tree, starting from its base.
“Abyss, why are you examining the sacred tree? The Druids haven’t found anything wrong with it,” Leona asked, her voice carrying through their telepathic link, as they floated beside him.
The tree itself wasn’t particularly interesting. Although its size was impressive, up close, it was just a very large tree. And it hadn’t bloomed yet, its withering leaves resembling those of any unhealthy tree.
“I think he’s looking for the source of its mana,” Rebecca said, smiling.
Abyss, hearing her, snapped his fingers, turning to face them. “Correct. That’s exactly what I’m doing.”
“So you’re trying to find the cause of its withering by tracing its mana flow?” Flora asked, realizing his intentions. “Didn’t the Druids think of that?”
Abyss patted the rough bark of the sacred tree. “Not just the Druids. Even you didn’t think of it at first.”
Leona, after a moment of thought, nodded. “That’s true. We didn’t. The Druids are looking for external causes, environmental factors. But isn’t the mana source connected to the environment?”
“The sacred tree has been a part of the Druids’ lives for over forty years. They’ve become accustomed to its presence, taking it for granted. When it started withering, they instinctively looked for external causes, something that harmed it. Its mana source might indeed be connected to the environment, but the surrounding area is vast. It would take them forever to investigate every possible factor,” Abyss explained, shaking his head, as he looked up at the massive tree.
“Indeed, even if they summoned all the high-ranking Druids, they might not find a solution,” Rebecca said, her voice filled with confidence. “Their best decision was to invite you here. No one else can solve this.”
“Even though I’m not a Druid?” Abyss asked, his mental voice laced with amusement.
“I’m always objective. I’m not flattering you. Your skills far surpass those of any other Druid,” Rebecca said, smiling. “Even if you weren’t a Druid, you’re still the most powerful mage on the continent—as long as you don’t resurrect Agnes.”
“I’ll resurrect her eventually. I don’t remember why I’m so determined to resurrect you five geniuses, but since you told me it’s important, I’ll trust your judgment,” Abyss said, shrugging.
The three girls knew that even with amnesia, Abyss hadn’t changed.
“So, how do you plan to find the sacred tree’s mana source?” Flora asked. The tree was massive, and the surrounding mana density was incredibly high. Using ordinary magic to trace its flow seemed impossible.
“I’m working on it,” Abyss said, glancing at her. “This tree is unique. I’ll try using magic to detect the mana flow. Be prepared.”
He chanted a short spell and snapped his fingers.
The mana within a certain radius began to glow. This spell was meant to visualize mana flow, but the effect was underwhelming—the mana density was so high that instead of revealing distinct streams or currents, it created a massive, blinding blob of turquoise light.
The sudden burst of light momentarily blinded them. The girls shielded their eyes, their enhanced senses momentarily overwhelmed. If they were ordinary undead, they might have been injured.
“Ouch!” “What was that?!” “Who cast a Flash spell?!”
The light, rivaling the sun’s brightness, startled the elves of Keshel, their cries of surprise echoing through the nearby villages. Some, unfortunate enough to be looking directly at it, were temporarily blinded.
“Oops…” Abyss quickly dispelled the spell.
But it was too late. Someone was approaching.
Arcaiste, the Grand Sage, his face etched with concern, floated upwards using wind magic, his gaze fixed on Abyss. “Mr. Belator… what was that?”
“Ah, my apologies. I was trying to detect the mana flow, but the mana density here is too high. It didn’t work,” Abyss said, scratching his head sheepishly. “I’m trying to find a solution for the sacred tree.”
“Please be careful. Don’t harm the nearby residents. If you need anything, let me know. And if you discover anything, please inform me immediately,” Arcaiste said, sighing, but his voice was calm, his demeanor patient.
“My apologies. I’ll be more careful next time,” Abyss said quickly.
Arcaiste bowed and floated back down.
As soon as he was gone, Abyss clapped his hands. “I have an idea!”
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