The towering gates of Hematheas loomed ahead, their magnificence almost hidden by the natural foliage that seemed to embrace every structure in this enchanted land. Luke squinted, barely making out the details at first, but as they drew closer, the craftsmanship became undeniable.
The gates were not merely barriers but living works of art. Enormous arching roots twisted together to form the frame, their bark seemingly alive, pulsing faintly with veins of glowing emerald. Intricate carvings adorned every inch of the surface—runes of ancient design that glimmered faintly in the light, accompanied by depictions of sprawling forests, cascading waterfalls, and radiant starlit skies. The doors were carved from a single colossal tree trunk, their smooth surface polished to an almost mirror-like finish.
