Sanctuary: Safe Haven

The forest parted before Canna, Kael, and Tiberius, revealing a sight that left them all in awe. Before them lay the village of the Verdant Wardens, a village unlike anything they had ever seen.

The village nestled into the hillside, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. The houses, constructed from natural materials, blended seamlessly with their surroundings. They were adorned with intricate wooden carvings and illuminated by warm, golden lights that glowed softly, giving the entire village a magical, ethereal ambiance.

The paths winding through the village were lined with vibrant flowers and glowing fungi, casting a gentle luminescence that added to the otherworldly feel.

Tiberius, who had seen many landscapes in his time, was the first to react. "By the spirits," he whispered, his voice filled with awe. "This place... it's like a dream."

Kael took a moment to absorb every detail. "The integration of nature and architecture here is beyond anything I've read about. This is the pinnacle of natural harmony."

Canna, usually quick to act and speak, found himself speechless. His eyes were wide with wonder, taking in the sheer beauty of the Verdant Wardens' village. The sight rooted him to the spot, his breath taken away by the serene and enchanting scene before him.

"This is incredible," Canna finally managed to say, his voice barely above a whisper. "I've never seen anything so beautiful, so perfectly in tune with nature."

As they walked further into the village, the sensation of magic and life grew stronger. The air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers and fresh rain, and the sounds of rustling leaves and distant waterfalls created a soothing symphony. It was as if the village itself was alive, breathing and thriving in harmony with the forest.

The villagers, the Verdant Wardens, moved gracefully among the trees and houses. Their attire, made from natural fibers and adorned with leaves and flowers, mirrored their surroundings. They greeted Canna, Kael, and Tiberius with warm smiles and curious glances, their eyes reflecting the wisdom and serenity of their environment.

"This place is a sanctuary," Canna said, turning to his companions. "A true sanctuary, the kind I dream of creating. We can learn so much from them."

Tiberius nodded, his eyes never leaving the breathtaking scenery. "If we can bring even a fraction of this harmony back to your domain, Canna, it will be a paradise."

Kael's analytical mind was already racing with ideas. "The knowledge they must possess about nature magic, the techniques they use to blend their lives with the environment... it's invaluable. We have to earn their trust."

As they continued to explore the village, the Verdant Wardens led them to a central gathering area, a spacious clearing surrounded by ancient trees. The ground was covered in a soft, velvety moss that glowed faintly under the filtered sunlight. In the center stood a grand tree, its massive trunk and sprawling branches made it look even more mystical.

However, before they got there, a being appeared in front of them.

The being was covered in branches and leaves, with roots wrapping around its limbs. If it stood still, it could very well be mistaken for a small tree. Its body was intertwined with vines and adorned with flowers, moss draped over its shoulders like a cloak. Its eyes glowed with a verdant light, and its hair flowed like willow branches in the wind.

As the being manifested, everyone in the area except for Canna and Kael started to kneel, even Tiberius. Curious about this, Kael asked Tiberius, who answered in a hushed tone, "Kneel, you idiot! That's their leader and the guardian of this village!"

Kael hurriedly knelt, respecting the presence of the Verdant Warden leader. He wanted to make sure they didn't start on the wrong foot, knowing how crucial this meeting was. However, as he looked up, he saw Canna standing straight like a pillar, his gaze fixed on the being. Kael suddenly remembered one of Tonitrum's conditions for Canna: to not bow to anyone or anything.

Sweat instantly poured down his forehead. The whole place grew awkward, with everyone else bowing except for Canna.

The Verdant Warden leader eyed Canna curiously. "I have been watching you since your first trial," it said, pausing before continuing. "Something is peculiar about you. Tell me, what did two low-transcendent and one A ranker come here for?"

Everyone eyed Canna suspiciously. He was the only one not greeting their leader, an act of clear disrespect among the Verdant Wardens.

"I came here beca—" Canna began, but the being interrupted him. "I've seen your trials. You want to create a sanctuary, don't you?" Slowly, the figure walked, its steps echoing in the silence. It opened its palm, and a stone throne materialized from the ground.

"We Verdant Wardens follow three strict rules. First, we protect nature. Second, protect your allies. Lastly," the pressure in the area suddenly shifted, making Kael's legs tremble and causing Tiberius to clench his fists. Canna felt sweat forming on his forehead; he hadn't encountered a true-calamity rank before, but his instincts told him that this being was one, and a very powerful one at that.

"We do not lie. Everyone rise and clear out this area, leave our guests here," the leader commanded menacingly.

Within a minute, the area was cleared, leaving only the Verdant Warden leader, who remained seated on her throne, along with Kael and Tiberius, who had unconsciously moved behind Canna.

"Now, let's start with the introductions. I am Flora Warden, the leader and guardian of this village. Next, you," Flora said, using a vine to point at Tiberius.

Tiberius took a deep breath, stepping forward with a respectful nod. "I am Tiberius Blackthorn, son of Varok and Liora Blackthorn, of the barbarians of the forest. My father is the chieftain of our tribe, and my mother is the village chief. We have long lived in harmony with the forest, protecting its secrets and defending our people from the dangers that lurk within."

Flora's eyes narrowed slightly as she assessed Tiberius. "So that's why you look familiar," she mused, a hint of recognition in her voice. "I know your people. Your tribe has a reputation for strength and resilience. It is good to see that the legacy continues."

With a wave of her hand, Flora gestured for Tiberius to step back. "Next, you with the spiky hair," she said, her gaze shifting to Kael.Nôv(el)B\\jnn

Kael stood tall and introduced himself with a noble air, "My name is Kael, former head of logistics from the Kingdom of Avaloria, left hand of the king. I have come seeking knowledge and alliance."

Flora raised an eyebrow. "Avaloria? That kingdom is far to the east. Interesting. And finally, you," Flora's tone turned menacing as she addressed Canna, the air growing thick with tension.

"Canna Yakane," was all Canna said. The locals waited for him to continue, but it appeared that was it.

Flora narrowed her eyes. "This is your last chance. Who are you?" The pressure from Flora's body intensified, making even the Verdant Wardens near her feel suffocated.

Canna didn't know if Flora was bluffing or could truly see his stats and title, but he believed in Tonitrum's words that only demigod ranks could see through his facade.

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