Chapter 73: Return to the Gathering
The people of the Eastern Empire witnessed a strange sight that day: seabirds carrying various marine creatures in their talons, flying swiftly in different directions.
Abyss had executed his plan, deploying his resurrected marine creatures near all the coastal Sacred Tree roots, carried by seabirds enhanced by his necromancy. He estimated they would reach even the farthest shores within two days, completing his deployment across the continent.
After this, Abyss and the three girls rested briefly, composed themselves, and set off for the Druid gathering.
Upon their return, the sun was setting. A sharp-eyed young Druid spotted them and rushed to report. Before they even entered the gathering’s territory, Arcaiste and a group of Druids came out to greet them.
Leona, startled by the unexpected welcome, asked Flora, “Flora, why are they making such a fuss? Did I damage the Sacred Tree’s roots when I destroyed the temple?”
“I don’t think so; they don’t seem angry…” Flora pointed upwards. “Look at the Sacred Tree.”
Leona looked up.
The Sacred Tree was indeed different.
In the setting sun’s glow, she could see scattered spots of color amidst the lush green foliage. With her sharp eyesight, she realized they were newly bloomed flowers.
The Sacred Tree was blooming!
“Wow! Such a noticeable effect!” Leona’s eyes widened in surprise.
“Master Belator!” Arcaiste and the Druids rushed towards Abyss. This time, he seemed genuinely happy, a faint smile gracing his usually melancholic face.
Abyss quickly dismounted and approached Arcaiste. “My, Master Arcaiste, there’s no need for such a grand welcome. It makes me feel a bit embarrassed.”
He meant it sincerely, but it sounded slightly insincere, almost teasing, making Rebecca almost laugh.
“Master Belator, your efforts have borne fruit. Everyone is overjoyed,” Arcaiste said, reaching Abyss. “Did you see the newly bloomed flowers on the Sacred Tree? They just opened. I personally inspected them; the Sacred Tree’s leaves have regained their vitality. It’s in good condition; our Sacred Tree is finally safe.”
“Yes, I saw them. And I have more good news,” Abyss smiled, addressing the joyful Druids. “The other issue you were worried about, the animal mutations, should also be under control.”
There were at least twenty Druids behind Arcaiste, all high-ranking, unlike the younger Druids observing from the trees. They stirred at Abyss’s words.
“Oh? Can you elaborate?” Arcaiste asked, his surprise barely visible on his somber face.
Abyss nodded. “As I mentioned before, our opponent is likely an Outer God. I’ve now confirmed it; the changes we’re experiencing are part of an Outer God’s scheme.”
The Druids began murmuring.
“An Outer God? We’ll just fight him back!” One Druid declared.
“Exactly! If he wants to destroy our world, we’ll fight him to the end! We Druids live to protect nature!”
“Good, excellent spirit!” Abyss nodded approvingly. Although the Druidic school was often seen as primitive and inflexible, their unwavering conviction was admirable. Abyss could tell they were sincere, not just putting on a brave face.
“I’ll continue. The animal mutations are also the Outer God’s doing. He had his followers build a temple at the Sacred Tree’s root, using a vile ritual to channel unholy power into the root, which the Sacred Tree then spread to the surrounding area.”
The Druids were outraged. The Sacred Tree was the Elven Kingdoms’ lifeline, a sacred place for Druids and all mages. To have it used as an antenna by an otherworldly Outer God was infuriating.
“The Sacred Tree’s withering was caused by its roots absorbing this impure power. Just like us, consuming unclean food can make us sick, and prolonged consumption can be life-threatening,” Abyss’s voice lowered slightly. “The Outer God’s power, channeled through the Sacred Tree, granted animals the ability to use magic, forming crystals in their brains. Any creature that consumes them gains that power – but you can all imagine the dangers of such power, right?”
“Poison wrapped in candy…” Arcaiste frowned deeply.
“If all goes well, the mutations shouldn’t spread further, but our task remains daunting. While the impact on neighboring countries is still manageable, most animals in the Elven Kingdoms have mutated. This will cause many problems, and we must find solutions before disaster strikes.”
“Perhaps protecting the people of the Elven Kingdoms is enough?” one Druid suggested.
“Not quite,” Abyss shook his head. “You’re forgetting human, and even elven, greed. Our greatest enemy isn’t the magic-wielding animals, but the sentient beings who covet their power.”
The unworldly Druids were taken aback, realizing the truth in his words.
“We must be wary of those who hunt these animals and warn our young against becoming obsessed with power,” Arcaiste said. “And we also have our greatest enemy, the Iron Lilies.”
“The Iron Lilies…” The name was infamous among elves; everyone’s expression turned grim.
“The Iron Lilies have likely infiltrated the Elven Kingdoms. Border checks are limited; those humans who want to exterminate us have many methods,” Arcaiste said. “They won’t miss this opportunity to gain power.”
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