Time passed quietly, and Velin's conversation with Kraismel gradually drew to a close.
This being from the distant past had unveiled for him several fascinating anecdotes buried beneath the dust of countless eras.
As for the even more secret mysteries of time, Kraismel did not speak of them, and Velin did not ask.
Some things were perhaps best left forever within the river of time.
"It is time to part."
Kraismel slowly rose to her feet, a gentle smile flowing through her eyes.
Velin stood as well. Looking at the incarnation of the World Tree before him, he suddenly felt a faint stirring in his heart and said, "Crowns, when I am with you, I feel an unprecedented sense of peace, as though I have returned to my mother's embrace. So, before we part, may I hug you?"
At Velin's words, Kraismel's expression shifted slightly. Her smile seemed to grow even brighter as she replied in a gentle voice, "Of course."
Before Velin could react, Kraismel had already come before him and drawn him into her arms.
Breathing in the fresh scent of grass and trees, Velin could not help closing his eyes, immersing himself in her tender embrace.
Kraismel gently patted Velin's back and softly said, "My child, I bless you."
"When you travel through the forest, the green shade shall forever guide your path. When you walk upon the earth, you shall never suffer harm."
Two green rays fell from the crown of the World Tree, arriving here and entering Velin's body, stirring rings of emerald ripples deep within his soul.
Wherever the light passed, the veins of his soul were infused with vigorous life force, radiating a soft glow.
"The ancient folk of the forest shall become your most dependable allies."
A trace of natural divinity quietly