Ashes Whisper

Chapter 45 : The World Tree

At night they decide to go on journey to the Elfhelm, Rina took the lead. While on their journey Elara couldn't contain her curiosity as she inquired, "Rina, when you spoke of someone breaking the seal, this realm's seal, what does it look like?"

Rina began to explain, "The truth about our world is that it's represented by the World Tree. The World Tree it consists of two colossal stems. One represents your world, and the other represents my world."

Zarek interjected the conversation "The World Tree? But how can it be? How can something so massive go unnoticed?".

Rina continued. "Ah, yes, that's the fascinating part. To perceive the World Tree, one requires insight—something akin to a third eye within the mind. It's not a mere physical sight but a perception of reality beyond the ordinary senses, granted to those with exceptional wisdom and an open mind."

In the midst of their journey, Rina elaborated, "But now, someone has managed to shatter the seal, and everyone can see it... Look to the sky."

Their gazes turned upward, and the sight that greeted them left the group in profound shock. Zarek couldn't help but exclaim, "Whoa, this is my first time laying eyes on the World Tree. It's colossal, with an eerie, dim light that seems to stretch into eternity."

Samael, equally captivated, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, this is the World Tree. We can clearly distinguish its branches now."

The ethereal illumination of the World Tree's branches in the night sky casting an otherworldly radiance over the landscape. It was a sight that none of them would ever forget, a testament to the awe-inspiring nature of the realms they were beginning to traverse.

Mikaela couldn't contain her curiosity and posed a question to Rina, "Have you or any other Elves ever reached the top of the World Tree?"

Rina replied, "No, even among us Elves, none have ever ascended to the pinnacle of the World Tree. To reach its apex, only one being—a deity—is said to have been granted such a privilege."

Khai asked Rina, "Rina, how is it possible for someone to break the seal?" Rina sighed softly before responding, "The seal was breached when someone stole the keys to the World Tree. The Queen entrusted me with the task of recovering these keys, but I failed in my mission. I still don't know who attacked me, but it's thanks to all of you that my injuries were treated."

While on journey to Elfhelm, Rina remind them, "Before we arrive in Elfhelm, it's important to remember that Elves can be quite prideful. They often view themselves as superior to other races."

As they entered the Elfhelm, Rina guided them through winding streets and elegant courtyards. They passed by magnificent sculptures and intricate carvings that celebrated the beauty of nature. The air hummed with a sense of tranquility and reverence for the world around them.

One of the Elves, with a curious and welcoming demeanor, approached Rina. "Ohhh, Rina, welcome back," the Elf greeted warmly, then turned their gaze to the newcomers. "And who is this?" they inquired.

Rina smiled and introduced her companions, "These are my friends who aided me when I was injured. Thanks to them, I have returned safely."

The Elf nodded, their eyes filled with a sense of gratitude and respect for Elara and the others. As Elara and her companions were exploring Elfhelm, one of the royal guards approached them with a commanding presence. With a firm tone, the guard addressed Elara, "Halt! Ashes Whisper, the Queen wishes to see you. Follow me."

The Elves nearby were taken aback, their murmurs filled with awe and wonder. "Ashes Whisper," they whispered in astonishment. "Is she the one?" "Could it be? " "our prayers have been answered?" "Our new hope?". The mention of Ashes Whisper seemed to have a profound impact on the Elves.

The journey led them to a grand palace adorned with ivy-covered archways and intricate mosaics that depicted tales of ancient heroes.

Inside the palace, they were guided through corridors adorned with paintings of breathtaking landscapes and ethereal beings. Finally, they reached a set of massive doors intricately carved with symbols of nature and magic. The doors slowly creaked open, revealing a resplendent chamber bathed in a soft, ethereal light.

At the heart of the chamber sat the Elven Queen, her presence exuding both grace and power, met Elara and her companions as she entered. The Queen extended a hand in a welcoming gesture, and her voice gentle as she spoke, "Welcome, Ashes Whisper. We have awaited your arrival."

The Elven Queen continue "You have come to us in a time of great need, Ashes Whisper. Your existence marks a turning point in the destiny of our kind."

Elara nodded, a sense of responsibility weighing heavily upon her. "I'm here to learn, to understand aboute Ashes Whisper, and to uncover its origin. Rina told me that someone has stolen the World Tree keys, and that it led to the breaking of the seal between our realms."

"The stolen keys have indeed caused a rift between our worlds, allowing the chaos of Eldritch to spill into Elfhelm. It is imperative that we restore the seal to protect both our realms." Said the Queen.

The Queen continue "First, I shall share with you the origin of Ashes Whisper,"