Continuation — inside the Great Tree
We went deeper—down a spiral staircase that felt alive.
Each step answered with the soft glow of runes beneath our feet.
And then… the door opened.
1. The Great Hall of the Tree
I froze.
This was more than just a chamber.
A vast hall carved inside a living tree—so immense it felt as if the forest itself had opened its heart.
Hundreds of firefly-runes drifted slowly beneath the ceiling.
Along the walls—carvings so vivid they seemed to breathe.
The history of the forest.
I saw:
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— the first elves arriving here;
— how they hid from humans;
— trees falling in ancient wars;
— new shoots rising again;
— the Council gathering;
— the birth of their small Forest Town…
And then—I saw myself.
Not an exact portrait, but… unmistakable.
A boy with white hair, standing before children, pointing at a glowing rune.
I let out a breath.
— They added that themselves, — Reim said quietly. — I wanted to remove it. But they said, “He is part of our history.” And I couldn’t argue.
— Then I told them to change the hair color from black to white. After all, I know how important your secret is to you, — Reim added.
I didn’t answer.
Warmth spread inside my chest, so strong I almost sat down right there on the floor.
2. A Conversation with Reim
Reim tilted his head slightly and fixed me with his beastlike—but kind—gaze.
— You’ve finally returned, Zen-senpai, — he said, as if he had been holding those words back for a year. — We waited for you for so long.
He stepped forward, straightening his shoulders just a little.
— If only you could see how much they’ve grown…
You would be proud of them—just as the forest is proud.
I heard a faint tremor in his voice.
The General—feared by bandits, beasts, and even elder elves—was trembling with emotion.
— I’ve sent word, — he continued. — Tomorrow, everyone will gather.
The Council of Branches wants to hear you.
You will… stay, won’t you?
I nodded.
— Of course. My winter break lasts a week.
Reim seemed to exhale—loudly, with relief.
— Good. Very good.