The winding branches, serpent-like, continuously coiled around the crystal, gradually engulfing it entirely.
Seconds later, the branches thickened, deep grooves formed, and new, smaller branches sprouted.
Conversely, the crystal began to dim and ultimately shattered into powder with a crisp sound.
This was indeed the work of the deity of trees.
Henry observed the deity's movements with a mix of astonishment and apprehension, noting how it appeared to be extracting energy from the crystals with a purpose that eluded him.
The unexpected presence of a 2-tier deity in this locale raised a multitude of questions and concerns.
The situation was further complicated by the cooldown period of his stealth Authority, which wouldn't be ready for use for another agonizing five minutes.
Trapped in this precarious window of vulnerability, Henry was acutely aware of the grave danger that discovery by this potent tree deity would pose.
