"Elder Timothy, Auntie Leafa, I'm hungry." Mixarnt said as he stepped into the elder's house. With Fantasia away for a few years, Timothy had taken on the responsibility of caring for the 9-year-old boy.

Timothy couldn't forget the way Fantasia had glared at him before leaving, her eyes practically demanding he take good care of Mixarnt during her 10-year absence. The memory always brought a chuckle—it was a comical yet heartfelt moment.

He looks up from the pot of stew simmering over the hearth fire, a warm smile spreading across his features. "Ah, welcome back, Mixarnt! Come sit, let me feed you before the evening chill sets in," he says, gesturing to a cozy corner near the crackling flames.

Mixarnt plops himself down onto the plush cushions, his stomach growling in anticipation as the tantalizing aroma of the stew wafts toward him. Elder Timothy ladles generous portions into three wooden bowls and passes one to the boy.

As they dine in comfortable silence, Mixarnt's mind occasionally wanders back to Fantasia and the care she provided during her tenure. He cherishes the memories of their playful times together, knowing that she left behind a piece of herself in nurturing his development.

When he finishes his meal, Mixarnt leans back, content and slightly lethargic from the satisfying meal.

"Elder, why do the elves in this village under the World Tree eat meat, while in Elvedoria they don't? They only eat fish, vegetables and fruits, but here we eat animal meat," Mixarnt asked curiously.

The elder smiled and explained, "The World Tree taught us to eat animal meat and hunt to avoid naivety. It wanted us to understand the cycle of life—the natural order that connects all living beings."

He leans forward, his voice taking on a conspiratorial tone. "The World Tree teaches us to respect all aspects of nature, from the majestic beasts roaming the forests to the humblest insects crawling upon the leaf litter. By embracing a balanced diet that includes both plant-based foods and occasional consumption of meat, we maintain a vital connection to the land and its creatures."

Timothy's gaze softens as he continues, "This understanding allows us to appreciate the intricate web of life, acknowledging the role every being plays in the grand tapestry of existence."

Timothy continues to explain that unlike the elves in the World Tree Village, those in Elvedoria were mostly raised by their parents without the World Tree's guidance. This led to their prejudice and hatred toward humans, whom they see as cruel and disgusting. While Mixarnt is an exception, Timothy couldn't help but wonder if things would change. His expression turns contemplative as he ponders the potential consequences of a union between Princess Nica and Mixarnt. He wonders if their love could serve as a bridge, gradually eroding the deep-seated prejudices held by the elves of Elvedoria against humanity.

"It would indeed be a significant step forward," Timothy muses aloud, "if Nica and Mixarnt were to form a lasting bond, one that transcended the divides of race and upbringing. Their marriage could potentially soften the hearts of Elvedorian elves, leading them to reconsider their biases and open their minds to the possibility of coexistence and mutual understanding with humans." However, the elder's optimism is tempered by pragmatism. "Change rarely comes easily or swiftly, especially when entrenched attitudes are involved. Much would depend on the couple's ability to navigate the complexities of their respective worlds and build trust with those around them."

The elder's thoughts were interrupted by Mixarnt. "Elder! Hey! You seem lost in thought. I was asking if I can take a bath now, hehe." Mixarnt said with a grin. Leafa, Timothy's wife, chuckled softly, amused by the moment. She couldn't help but see a glimpse of young Fantasia in Mixarnt. Despite being friends with Fantasia, both Timothy and Leafa were 500 years older than her.

Timothy chuckles, snapping out of his contemplations as he gazes at Mixarnt's cheerful face. "Ah, apologies for the distraction, young man." he says with a paternal smile. "Of course, you may enjoy your bath. Leafa has likely prepared the waters to perfection, as always."

As if on cue, Leafa nods, her golden hair shimmering in the firelight. "The tub is ready, Mixarnt. Go on, enjoy the warmth and relaxation. We'll be here, enjoying each other's company, when you return refreshed and clean." She winks at Timothy, and they share a loving glance.

With a grateful nod, Mixarnt bounds toward the bathing chamber, eager to shed his travel-stained attire and immerse himself in the soothing waters. The enticing aroma of herbs and essential oils carried on the steam makes his eyes shine in anticipation.

Later that evening, Mother Tree appeared in her physical human dryad form, resembling a beautiful woman, and knocked on the elder's door. Curious about who could be visiting at such an hour, Timothy opened the door. His eyes widened in shock, and he stammered in surprise upon seeing Mother Tree in her human dryad form, appearing as though she were flesh and blood. Though the World Tree still stood tall outside, its consciousness was now embodied in this form. Leafa, Timothy's wife, was equally astonished by the unexpected visit.

"By the sacred groves, Mother Tree," Timothy stammers, his voice barely above a whisper. "What brings you to our humble abode in this mortal guise?"

Leafa, equally taken aback, steps forward, her hands clasped in front of her. "Welcome, noble entity," she says, her voice trembling slightly with awe. "Please, come in. We are honored by your presence; in whatever form you choose to embody."

As the elder and his wife let the World Tree inside their home, Timothy can't help but marvel at the beauty and tranquility that radiates from her very being.

"Oh! Mom!!" Mixarnt exclaimed, running to embrace Mother Tree. He rarely saw her in her human dryad form, so he eagerly took the chance to hug her. Timothy and Leafa, still stunned, asked Mixarnt how he recognized her so easily.

"Whenever I play on the branches of the World Tree, Mom sometimes appears like this... though not always," Mixarnt replied innocently, his tone full of childlike honesty.

The World Tree's human dryad form cradles Mixarnt in a warm embrace, a radiant smile gracing her flawless features. Her voice is like music as she whispers to the boy, "I cherish our special bond, dear Mixarnt. Playing among my boughs allows us to connect on a deeper level, beyond the physical boundaries of your growing form."

Timothy and Leafa exchange wide-eyed glances, clearly taken aback by the revelation of their charge's deep relationship with the World Tree. Timothy recovers first, his brow furrowing in concern. "With respect, Mother Tree," he says cautiously, "Mixarnt is a cherished ward, entrusted to our care. We ensure his well-being and safety above all else. Perhaps we should discuss the parameters of your interactions with him, given the unique nature of your bond?"

Leafa nods in agreement, her hand reaching out to lightly stroke Mixarnt's tousled hair.

The World Tree's spirit pouted slightly, her radiant complexion glowing with a soft blush. "I understand your concerns, dear guardians," she said gently, "but as the protector of this land and its creatures, I share a deep bond with Mixarnt. While Fantasia's efforts are admirable, they don't diminish my role as his spiritual parent."

Her emerald eyes softened as she looked at Timothy and Leafa. "Can't you see? Mixarnt needs guidance from someone connected to Nature's essence and the magic within him. I can offer the love and wisdom he needs to grow into the hero of prophecy." Turning to Mixarnt, her expression warmed with affection. "My child, you are more extraordinary than most can imagine. Your destiny is tied to mine and to the future of this realm."

"Hahaha, you always say that, Mother! Yawn..." Mixarnt said as he rubbed his eyes sleepily, his innocence showing, mother tree smiled and took him to his room and told him stories of past heroes and adventurers until he started drifting off to sleep.

Later, Leafa, Timothy, and the World Tree's spirit gathered around the table.

"Um, Mother Tree, what brings you here?" Timothy asked respectfully. "I know you came to see Mixarnt, but I feel there might be another reason." The World Tree's spirit smiled gently. "Mixarnt is now 9... When he turns 11, his journey will begin. I wanted you to be prepared. It will be a path filled with both sorrow and joy, crossing paths with many fated stars."

The World Tree's spirit continued, her tone becoming more solemn. "Sadly, Mixarnt must undertake this journey alone. None of us can interfere." she said gently. "Along the way, he will encounter others—the stars—who will guide and support him on his path."

Timothy and Leafa nod solemnly, understanding the gravity of the World Tree's words. They can sense the reluctance in her tone, the pain of having to distance herself from Mixarnt at a pivotal moment in his life.

"We will respect Mixarnt's journey." Timothy assures, his voice steady and resolute. "However, we also cannot abandon our duty to offer guidance whenever possible, even from a distance."

Leafa places a comforting hand on her husband's arm. "Indeed. We will remain connected to Mixarnt, supporting him through our love and wisdom, even as he navigates the unknown paths ahead."

The World Tree's spirit gazes at them with gratitude, her ethereal form shimmering with a hint of melancholy. "Your devotion warms my essence, dear friends. Remember, Mixarnt's triumph is a victory for us all – for the land, for the stars, and for the future he embodies."