Morning arrived across the Veyris Empire.
For countless ages, the Universe Tree had stood at the center of the Empire silently watching stars be born, worlds grow, and eras disappear.
Now.
everything felt different.
Because for the first time.
Universe Tree was walking around as a person.
Inside the Imperial Gardens, she looked around curiously.
Floating crystal butterflies landed on her hand.
Leaves of emerald light drifted around her.
She stared at everything.
Nearby, Kaelignis Veyris blinked.
Wait.
You've been watching us this whole time?
Universe Tree nodded.
Since before your births.
Silence.
Elyrion Veythera slowly closed her book.
...That is slightly terrifying.
Veyloria Kaelthera tilted her head.
...Do trees get lonely?
The question surprised everyone.
Universe Tree became quiet.
The wind around her slowed.
For a moment.
she simply looked upward.
Yes.
Silence filled the garden.
Kael Veyris walked over.
He looked at her.
You're not standing alone anymore.
Universe Tree looked at him.
Then slowly smiled.
Nearby.
Ignisia crossed her arms.
Okay now I'm feeling emotional and I don't like it.
Umbryssia laughed softly.
The Dragon Goddess is getting soft.
Ignisia immediately pointed.
No evidence exists.
Meanwhile.
high above the Empire.
the strange Hidden Resonance symbols from before suddenly flickered again.
Tiny streams of light descended around the daughters.
Ancient words appeared:
Bloodline Resonance Expanding
New Path Detected
Kaelignis looked up.
Uh...
Dad?
The sky is writing things again.
Kael looked upward.
His eyes narrowed slightly.
Interesting.
It's reacting to all of you now.
Far away
the mysterious Watcher opened its eyes once more.
But this time
its voice carried curiosity rather than surprise.
The branches are becoming a forest.