The gentle hum of the grove was broken by a sudden shimmer at the base of the Giant Tree. The pocket mirror, still nestled against the bark, began to ripple like liquid silver. Light twisted and bent within it, forming a vortex that swirled faster and faster.
"Lira," the Giant Tree Spirit's deep voice resonated, "the portal to the past stirs. You must observe. Step carefully, and let your eyes teach you what words cannot."
Lira approached the portal, her heart quickening with anticipation. She felt the energy radiating from the mirror, ancient and alive, humming in harmony with the pulse of the grove. Fluffy padded nervously beside her, tail twitching, as Renkai and Thalanir watched from nearby, quiet in respect for the moment.
She placed a hand on the edge of the mirror. The silver liquid shimmered, folding inward. With a steady breath, she leaned closer, and the world of the past unfolded before her eyes.
