The grove was alive around them, humming softly with energy. Lira walked among the plants, running her fingers over leaves, bending slightly to smell herbs that had grown taller and stronger since her last visit.
The Giant Tree Spirit watched silently, the glow in its bark pulsing like a heartbeat.
"You tend well to what was planted," it said, its voice deep and resonant. "Soon, I will give you more missions… and more rewards will come to those who honor the grove."
Lira looked up, her gaze steady.
"I accept. I am ready."
The spirit's amber eyes seemed to smile as a faint breeze rustled the silver leaves.
Lira stepped under the tree's towering branches, the ground cool beneath her feet. She approached her wooden table, carefully placed beneath the shade of the roots. Fresh herbs, leaves, and tiny flowering sprouts awaited her touch.
She picked up a few stems, inhaling their scent. Healing, energizing, calming… her mind raced with possibilities.
