"I've finally made it. After all the deaths and countless setbacks, I've found the Great Tree—the key to reclaiming my former glory," I thought as I stood beside the colossal plant. They weren't exaggerating when they called it a great tree. Its trunk stretched so high into the sky that I couldn't see the top. I wondered just how deep its roots reached.
The path from the chamber's entrance to the tree had been eerily quiet. Just as Adriel promised, nothing stood in my way. It felt almost too easy, like a leisurely stroll in the park. Part of me wished the journey had taken longer.
A few weeks ago, just before leaving for Egypt, Mr. Nobody had told me that once I found the Great Tree, I should touch it to establish a connection.
Without hesitation, I placed my hand on the tree's bark. At first, nothing happened, but in the blink of an eye, I found myself floating in a vast, dark void. I couldn't see anything, but then I heard a voice—a sweet, soothing female voice that exuded calmness and serenity, like a mother gently lulling her baby to sleep. Suddenly, a light began to shine, revealing something that looked like a hexagonal emerald stone.
"It's been centuries since someone last connected with me. I'm sure you know who I am, don't you, young man?" the mysterious voice asked.
"Yes, I was told you know everything, so you must know why I'm here," I replied, testing whether what Mr. Nobody had said was true.
"You're correct. I know why you've come. You seek the locations of the four golden keys. You were hired by the Order of the Shining Stars. And yes, I know you're also testing me to see if trusting Mr. Nobody was a wise decision," the voice continued. "Before we proceed, you should know that I am merely an instrument for gathering knowledge about the world and humanity. I was planted thousands of years ago by Eldorath, the god of knowledge, as a living server that constantly updates and adapts. You wondered how deep my roots go. They extend throughout the entire world, from the inside out. Every forest, park, and jungle is a part of me—my branches."
I couldn't hide my astonishment. The Great Tree wasn't just a tree; it was the world itself. With a skeptical tone, I asked why it allowed humanity to destroy nature. The voice responded that it wasn't its place to interfere; its purpose was to collect data and share it with anyone who managed to reach this hidden chamber in the heart of Egypt.
I hesitated, unsure of what to say next. Swallowing hard, I took a deep breath and finally asked what I had come here to find out. I demanded to know the locations of the four golden keys. The voice replied, "I will tell you where the keys are. However, as I mentioned, it's been a long time since anyone spoke with me. Though I am an ancient tree, even I can grow bored. So, I'd like to propose a deal."
"What kind of deal?" I asked cautiously.
"I will share with you seven stories of humanity's greatest sins. Hidden within these tales are the locations of the keys. You will learn secrets known only to the dead and the spirits, and you will come to understand not only the vastness of the world but also its true age. Are you interested?" the Great Tree asked.
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't intrigued, and I'm sure it knew that. There was no point in lying to it. Asking if I would accept the deal was just a formality. "Fine, I'll take your deal," I answered.
With a note of excitement in its voice, the Great Tree replied, "Excellent. Let's begin with The Hero and The Devil..."34Please respect copyright.PENANABQnwvvmm53