Chapter 10 - 9 Huxlen Family
"We’ve arrived," said Beri.
Before them stood a grand residence—no less stunning than the city itself. But it wasn’t a stone palace or a lavish mansion. It was a massive tree named Elenvar, said to have lived for thousands of years, growing into a kind of "natural castle."
Its trunk curled open in the middle to form a natural hall. Branches stretched in every direction, supporting small bud-shaped houses. From the gaps hung vines of glowing flowers in hues of green and gold. The canopy above shimmered, its leaves changing colors with time, and tonight, they glowed softly—like falling stars suspended in the air.
But before they could step inside, Beri paused and gently grabbed Sylphia’s hand.
"Verin... I think I changed my mind," he said, serious but hesitant. "Maybe I should be the only one escorting you to the capital."
Sylphia turned to him, eyes cold. "And you think you can?"
"...Maybe?" Beri replied, though it sounded more like a question than an answer.
Sylphia’s gaze sharpened—like an arrow of ice not yet fired but ready to strike. "Forget it. I’ll go in alone."
Beri raised an eyebrow, considering. "You sure?"
Sylphia stepped forward—but before she could take another step, roots shot up from below, gently but firmly wrapping around her.
"Oh come on, Beri! Are you serious?" Sylphia yelled, half-laughing out of frustration.