Chapter 326: Whispers of the Heartwood
Samuel's POV
The moon hung low over the canopy, its silver light weaving through the branches like fingers brushing stained glass. My breath slipped in quiet plumes as I stood at the forest's edge, staring into the heart of the wild: Heartwood Sanctuary. The system's quest summary still hovered in my mind:
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Main Quest: Seek Out the Spirit of the First Tree
Difficulty: High
Penalty for Failure: Severe backlash, possible death by nature's wrath
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Every shadow seemed alive, every gust of wind carrying a thousand voices. No flame, no weapons, no lies—those were the rules. My gloved hand hovered at my side, itching with the urge to draw a blade, but I resisted.
"Respect is not requested—it is required," the system had warned.
I swallowed. The soft crunch of fallen leaves underfoot was the only sound as I stepped cautiously onto the forest path. The air felt thicker here, charged with ancient magic. Bioluminescent lichen glowed on gnarled roots, casting an emerald haze that danced along my boots.
Objective Update: Travel to Heartwood Sanctuary.