Chapter 35: The Sacred Tree’s Warning System
“Did you make the sacred tree bloom?”
Grand Sage Arcaiste stood before Abyss and his companions, his melancholic gaze fixed on Abyss, but his voice now held a note of hope, a stark contrast to his earlier weariness.
Abyss smiled and nodded. “Yes, Master Arcaiste. I used a bit of magic to encourage it to bloom, without harming it. I hope… it wasn’t too much trouble?”
They had left the visitors’ quarters and were exploring the Druid council’s grounds when a messenger had summoned Abyss to meet with the Grand Sage, who, it seemed, had been so startled by the sacred tree’s sudden blooming that he had left his residence. Abyss, confident in his abilities, had readily agreed.
He had brought his followers with him to further solidify his reputation, to subtly showcase his power, and to find opportunities to assist the Druids, earning their favor.
Although Arcaiste’s expression remained melancholic, his speech was faster, his excitement evident.
“No, it wasn’t a problem at all,” Arcaiste said, shaking his head. “I’ve witnessed your power, Mr. Belator. But I’m curious, how did you identify the sacred tree’s ailment? And what method did you use to induce blooming?”
“I simply experimented with a bit of magic,” Abyss explained patiently. “It was a trial-and-error approach. I believe the sacred tree is withering because it’s lacking mana.”
“Lacking mana?” Arcaiste started to ask a question, then paused, lost in thought.
“Yes, lacking mana. From the outside, the surrounding area seems to have an abundance of mana, and the vegetation is thriving. There’s no indication of a mana deficiency. But when I channeled some of my own mana into the tree, it bloomed. This suggests it’s currently in a state of mana deprivation.”
“The previous Grand Sage was truly wise,” Rebecca said, seamlessly continuing Abyss’s explanation. “She must have anticipated this. If the sacred tree couldn’t maintain the mana density and the soil’s fertility, it would have a devastating impact on the surrounding ecosystem. So, the sacred tree prioritizes the environment’s needs.”
“It’s like two interconnected water tanks. When the water supply is low, the sacred tree sacrifices its own needs to maintain the other tank’s water level. Its withering serves as a warning to the Druids, giving you time to find a solution, preventing a sudden ecological collapse,” Abyss said, clarifying Rebecca’s analogy.
Arcaiste, his brow furrowed, nodded slowly, understanding their explanation.
“But, Master Arcaiste, I haven’t found a way to reverse the withering. The amount of mana it requires is immense. We need to find its mana source and address the underlying problem,” Abyss said, his voice apologetic. “I can make it bloom, but I can’t guarantee its long-term health. It’s a temporary solution, not a cure.”
“I understand. Thank you, Master Belator,” Arcaiste said, nodding.
Abyss noticed the change in his address. He was now being called “Master.” His display of power, his ability to make the sacred tree bloom, combined with his knowledge of Druidic spells, gleaned from the earlier demonstrations, had convinced Arcaiste of his expertise.
Abyss felt a twinge of guilt. Although he had learned many Druidic spells, he was still an amateur.
“The sacred tree’s problem isn’t easily solved. There’s no need to apologize,” Arcaiste continued. “But your accomplishment has given me hope. I believe, with your help, we can save the sacred tree.”
Abyss, considering his next move, decided against revealing his plan to drain the mana from the surrounding area. It was too radical, and it would put Arcaiste in a difficult position, regardless of his opinion. And the Grand Sage wasn’t a monarch. His authority was limited. He needed the support of the other Sages.
“I’ll find a way to unite everyone and solve this problem,” he said. “And I’ll also assist you with the animals’ unusual behavior. I suspect it’s connected to something… beyond mortal comprehension.”
“Would you like to explore the council grounds?” Arcaiste asked, bowing slightly.
“Yes, we can’t just sit here idly. We’ll explore and see if we can be of any assistance,” Abyss said, smiling.
“If you’re interested, you can join me. We have a designated meeting place where we discuss and resolve important matters,” Arcaiste said. “We’re facing many challenges right now. Your assistance would be greatly appreciated.”
“A meeting place?” Abyss asked, his interest piqued, exchanging a glance with Rebecca, who seemed equally intrigued.
“Would you like to come with me?” Arcaiste asked, a rare smile appearing on his face, although it didn’t quite suit his melancholic features.
“Of course. Please, lead the way, Master,” Abyss said, nodding.
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