The next morning, the Heart Workshop buzzed with excitement. Lira moved carefully among the glowing Mushrooms of Wisdom, selecting several of the largest sprouts. Their caps pulsed softly as if sensing her touch, and when she whispered words of calm, the light shimmered in response.
"Remember," Master Briln said, adjusting his goggles, "they need balance on the surface too. The air is different, the soil is different. But your roots… your roots will guide them."
Lira nodded. She carried them in the living vessel the gnomes had crafted, the crystals humming softly to keep the mushrooms nourished.
Then her eyes fell on the tunnelhelpers. One of the mole-creatures, a small and plucky Murris with silver-tipped fur, had been following her all morning. It tilted its head, chittering softly.
"You want to come with me, don't you?" Lira asked. The creature squeaked again, brushing against her hand. She laughed. "Alright, little one. You'll help me with the mushrooms—and the grove."
