The path opened into a vast clearing bathed in golden light.
Though it seemed natural, its source wasn’t of the sun, but something else, hidden from view, made so to be obfuscated from prying eyes.
In the center was a giant tree, seemingly made out of other trees, forming towering pillars that stretched far into the sky, their trunks woven together like vines and branches that formed walkways from one to another, appearing almost hand-carved yet entirely natural.
Vines blossomed and draped over them like banners.
Sonder craned her neck to take it all in, feeling dwarfed by the sight.
This castle, if it could be called that, was imposing, and even though it looked something like she had in her mind, there were no visible gates or doors, only open arches leading further into the forest fortress.
Around the clearing, crystal-clear pools shimmered, their waters so transparent that the fish within seemed to hover just above the surface. Animals roamed freely, unbothered by their visitors, pausing to drink from the pools or graze on patches of soft moss.
The Queen turned to face them, her hand sweeping over the scene. “Welcome to my home,” she said, her voice serene. She let the two of them absorb the view, a glimmer of satisfaction in her eyes as they took in the beauty of her realm. After a moment, her gaze settled on Vell, with a glint in her eyes.
“Sonder,” she said, addressing her gently. “I’d like you to take a moment to explore the gardens.” She gestured toward a pathway to the side of the main entrance, where rows of flowering plants led into a labyrinth of greenery. “Follow that path and listen carefully. The garden may reveal things that only you can hear.”
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Sonder looked to Vell, a flicker of hesitation in her eyes. But he offered her a reassuring nod. “Go on,” he encouraged, his voice calm. “I’ll be right here.”
With a small nod, she made her way down the path, colorful flowers guiding her into the garden, while Vell stayed behind, watching her disappear into the greenery.
Once Sonder was out of sight, the Queen turned fully to Vell, her expression shifting to something more intent, almost probing.
Her eyes seemed to pierce through him, as if reading the layers of his past and unspoken intentions.
“You are wise enough to know, Mage, that the forest has accepted her,” she began, her voice direct. “It has sensed her heart, her openness to the magic of these lands.”
Vell’s jaw tightened slightly, but his tone remained respectful. “I have noticed. Celadon has... made its preference quite clear.” He gave a rueful half-smile, recalling his recent stumble. “But in the end it is just a forest.”
The Queen’s gaze remained on him without even blinking. “Celadon is more than a forest; it is a force, a living entity that reads deeper than actions. It senses true intentions and recognizes sincerity.” She paused, studying him and his reaction. “It has recognized your companion and felt her potential. She could lead a good life here and grow into her power. I would see her become part of Celadon. Will you give her to us?”
Vell straightened and raised an eyebrow. “Give her to you? Is this a joke? I think maybe you’ve been among the trees for so long that humor has become lost to you.”
The Queen didn’t blink, her face calm and composed. “This is not humor, Mage. It is a question asked in earnest.”
Vell shook his head. “No. Sonder is mine alone.”
The Queen’s eyes narrowed ever so slightly as she raised a hand to her face, brushing her fingers against her temple thoughtfully. “Perhaps this is not solely your decision,” she said, her tone as measured as ever. “In time, Sonder may have to decide for herself. And seeing how naturally she fits within Celadon, I think I know what her answer might be. Celadon watches you closely, Mage, and it will continue to do so. I suggest you be mindful of what you show it.”