As they arrived at the World Tree settlement, Nica rushed into the arms of her parents, the king and queen, embracing them tightly. The entire Elvedorian royal family was present, except for Princess Rose, who was currently residing in another kingdom. Their visit coincided with their monthly pilgrimage to the World Tree.
Their embrace filled with reassurance and love. The king rested a firm hand on Nica's back, while the queen whispered soothing words to comfort her shaken daughter. Mixarnt stood close by, watching the reunion with quiet admiration. The warmth and strength of the Elvedorian royalty were evident, their presence exuding both grace and authority. Seeing that the village and surrounding forest remained untouched by the disaster, Mixarnt let out a breath of relief.
"Everyone… and Mixarnt, gather near my roots," the Mother Tree called, her voice gentle and soothing.
The villagers, along with the Elvedorian royal family and Mixarnt, moved toward the base of the towering tree. They formed a semi-circle, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern. A quiet reverence settled over the gathering as the World Tree’s ethereal spirit emerged, her emerald aura pulsing with an ancient, calming energy.
Her gaze swept over them, acknowledging each soul with silent understanding. When her eyes met Mixarnt’s, they glowed with a warmth that carried both love and unspoken wisdom.
"My children," she began, her voice resonating like a whisper through the wind, "the earthquake that shook our land was not a natural disaster. Dark forces have awakened beneath us, seeking to disrupt the balance and spread chaos."
She paused, letting the weight of her words sink in as a hushed tension filled the air.
"Child loved by mana... the time has come for you to embark on your journey," Mother Tree declared. Everyone knew she was speaking to Mixarnt. Nica's eyes widened in surprise, her grip tightening on her skirt as she processed the words of mother tree.
"What do you mean, Mother Tree?" Mixarnt asked, his voice laced with curiosity.
Before an answer came, a radiant black sword descended from the sky, its gleaming surface pulsing with an otherworldly energy. The entire assembly watched in awe, even the seasoned Elvedorian knights exchanging wary glances, sensing the immense power radiating from the weapon. The sword hovered just above Mixarnt's outstretched palm, its glow illuminating his face. Mother Tree's voice resonated once more, carrying both wisdom and warning.
"This blade, forged in the heart of a dying star, shall be both your weapon and your burden." she intoned. "It is a reflection of the darkness within you, yet also a beacon of hope. Only by confronting and mastering your inner shadows can you restore balance to this world."
As if responding to her words, the sword pulsed brighter, its ethereal light wrapping around Mixarnt like an unspoken promise. The sword dissolved into shimmering particles of light and merged into his body. In that instant, a name surfaced in his mind.
"Enigma." he whispered.
The World Tree's voice echoed gently. "That is a Spirit Weapon—one with a will of its own. It chooses its wielder, and now, it has chosen you."
Before he could respond, an unseen force lifted Mixarnt high into the air, carrying him to the top of the World Tree. From above, the vast land stretched endlessly before him, but one sight held his attention—a dark, ominous line cutting across the distant horizon.
"That," the World Tree said softly, "is the Abyss line. Your destiny lies beyond it."
Mixarnt's gaze fixed on the foreboding boundary, his heart pounding. Whatever awaited him on the other side, he knew there was no turning back. "The lands beyond the Abyss line are filled with powerful beings—Absolute Gods, Elder and Ancient Dragons, Great Demon Lords, powerful humans, and anomalies." the World Tree warned. "You must grow stronger before you set foot there." With those words, the World Tree gently lowered Mixarnt back to the ground, a new purpose settling in his heart.
