Elias drifted off to sleep that night, blissfully free of the nightmares and haunting memories of his past. He awoke before dawn, the familiar chime of his digital clock within the status window announcing the time.
"Four in the morning, huh?" he muttered, glancing at the display. It showed not just the time, but a countdown as well: 1999 days.
The date itself wasn't unusual (04:00, Bloomthaw 5th, 1891 AT), but the month name – Bloomthaw – piqued his curiosity.
He delved deeper into the date and time section of his status window, revealing a breakdown of the local calendar.
__________
Arcadia Calendar
Year: 1891
Season: Spring
Month: Bloomthaw (A time of new growth and renewal, celebrated with festivals and planting ceremonies throughout Arcadia)
Day: Water's Day (Traditionally a day for honoring water spirits and ensuring bountiful rains and healthy rivers)
__________
Elias rubbed his eyes and pushed himself to the edge of the luxurious bed. His gaze fell upon the magnificent door across the room. Curiosity bubbling, he reached out and pushed it open.
Beyond lay another spacious chamber, a stark contrast to the cozy bedroom. Here, the walls were smooth but undeniably sturdy, formed from the very core of the Shadowbloom tree itself.
Magical carvings and ancient symbols adorned the surfaces, whispering tales of the tree's history and power.
High above, the ceiling resembled a canopy of interlocking branches, with leaves that glowed faintly, mimicking a starry night sky.
The floor was crafted from polished wood, covered in plush carpets of animal skins. Natural wood grain patterns added to the room's rustic charm.
One side offered a haven of relaxation, featuring massive sofas woven from Shadowbloom twigs and upholstered in soft, dark green fabric.
Scattered cushions embroidered with floral and leaf motifs promised comfort, while a magical fireplace, fueled by mesmerizing purple flames, cast a warm glow across the room.
A large, ornate mirror with a carved wooden frame hung above the fireplace.
On the other side, a long dining table, crafted from Shadowbloom wood and adorned with intricate carvings depicting ancient stories, stood ready to accommodate a feast for twenty.
Fine animal skin upholstered the high-backed chairs, and magical stones on the table provided gentle illumination for evening meals.
A centerpiece of wildflowers and forest plants completed the natural ambience.
The center of the room boasted a gathering area, complete with several chairs and a small table, all crafted from hand-carved Shadowbloom wood.
A beautifully carved harp stood proudly in a corner.
The walls weren't bare either. Large paintings depicting stunning natural landscapes and even a few portraits of Elias himself adorned them.
Elegantly carved statues of natural stone graced the corners, while woven pots overflowing with ornamental plants added a touch of freshness and life to the space.
Large, natural doors formed from branches and twigs led to a balcony, promising a breathtaking view of the entire Shadowbloom domain
Light, leafy curtains provided a touch of privacy when desired, but could also be drawn back to allow sunlight and fresh breezes to fill the room.
Finally, a large bookshelf on one wall beckoned, brimming with ancient and rare tomes, waiting to be explored and enjoyed.
Elias entered the newly revealed room, his jaw agape in stunned silence.
He retreated a few steps, then impulsively pushed the door open again, muttering to himself, "Not a dream..."
With a sense of wonder, he explored the space, his steps echoing on the hardwood floor.
One of the grand doors, adorned with a sheer curtain of shimmering leaves, caught his eye.
He gently parted the curtain and stepped out onto a balcony overlooking the vast expanse of the Shadowbloom Domain.
The sky was still cloaked in darkness at this pre-dawn hour, but a faint light was beginning to creep over the horizon.
From his elevated vantage point, Elias' breath hitched as he took in the breathtaking panorama.
Rolling green hills, like a verdant tapestry, carpeted the area surrounding the majestic Shadowbloom tree. Below the hills, vast grasslands shimmered with morning dew, adding to the idyllic and serene landscape.
Behind the hills lay Crystal Lake, its surface mirroring the faint light like a scattered handful of jewels amidst the darkness.
In the distance, the silhouette of a dense, ancient forest etched the horizon, adding to the region's natural majesty.
Beyond the forest, a rugged mountain range stretched out, a natural border safeguarding and separating this region from the outside world.
The air hung heavy with a tranquil mystery, the only sound a gentle breeze carrying the first whispers of the morning's fragrance.
This was a rare moment, a breathtaking view of Arcadia's unspoiled beauty, especially for someone like Elias, who was new to this world.
***
Living in Frostspire under Prometheus' domain for over a year had instilled in Elias the habit of waking up well before dawn.
Every morning, a routine of warmup exercises and physical training awaited him.
Over time, this routine became ingrained, transforming into an unbreakable schedule.
Elias had dedicated nearly two hours to his morning workout.
He started with a run around the Shadowbloom tree, which had inexplicably grown larger overnight.
Though surprised by the changes in the tree and its surroundings, Elias dismissed them for now, prioritizing his exercise regime.
After his run, he moved on to practicing martial arts techniques learned in his previous world, followed by sword drills.
Elias slumped back in a chair carved from tree roots, positioned near the tree. A large, root-formed table sat before him.
He panted heavily, sweat trailing down his entire body.
A soft clinking sound reached him. "My lord," Nightshade announced, placing a wooden cup filled with a refreshing drink in front of Elias.
"Thank you, Nightshade," Elias said gratefully, emptying the cup in a single gulp. "Where's Moonshade?"
"She's preparing breakfast and some clothes for you to wear today, my lord," Nightshade replied with a bow.
"I can't wait to see what's for breakfast!" Elias grinned at Nightshade.
"Though, before that, I wouldn't mind freshening up. Where's the bathroom?" Since waking up and diving into training, he hadn't had a chance to explore the new rooms within the Shadowbloom tree.
Nightshade bowed deeply. "My apologies, my lord, there aren't any bathrooms here."
Elias blinked. The image of a refreshing shower vanished before his eyes. "Then... how do I... well, you know?"
A smile returned to Nightshade's face. "Don't fret, my lord. On the ground floor, there's a natural bathing pool fed by a magical spring within the tree. The water is quite refreshing, I assure you."
Relief washed over Elias. "Ah, that's much better! If you wouldn't mind guiding me now, I'd appreciate it."
Nightshade bowed again. Rising, Elias followed the spirit as they climbed several steps.
Reaching a large, high-ceilinged room, Nightshade explained, "This is the main hall, my lord. It's a perfect place to receive guests when the time comes."
Several chairs and tables were neatly arranged, facing a raised platform where an elegant, throne-like chair made from tree roots sat proudly.
Two grand staircases on either side of the platform led to a higher floor.
Nightshade then led Elias through a side door, entering another room.
"These doors here lead to the storage room, which is currently empty, my lord," Nightshade said, gesturing to the lined doors.
Finally, they reached a staircase leading down. Descending, Elias found himself before a beautiful bathing pool with crystal-clear, sparkling water, illuminated by glowing crystals placed around the edge.
"Enjoy your time, my lord," Nightshade bowed.
"I'll head up and assist Moonshade." Receiving a grateful nod from Elias, he then turned and left, climbing back up the stairs.
****
Elias sat at the head of the long table, sunlight streaming through the window and bathing him in a warm glow. Moonshade and Nightshade stood attentively behind him.
Moonshade had prepared a simple yet incredibly nutritious breakfast. Fresh forest fruits, glistening with morning dew, were artfully arranged on a plate.
A golden pool of honey glistened beside them, promising a touch of sweetness.
Steam rose from a delicate cup, carrying the enticing aroma of herbal tea brewed from magical herbs that thrived on the surrounding hills.
After a satisfying breakfast, Elias pushed back his chair with a contented sigh.
"Thank you, Moonshade," he said, his voice warm with appreciation.
"That was a truly delightful breakfast. The fruits are incredibly fresh, and the tea... is it infused with mint, perhaps? It's incredibly refreshing."
Moonshade smiled, a flicker of pride in her eyes.
"Indeed, my lord. We gathered the fruits just this morning, and the tea is made with moonlit mint, a rare herb that grows only under the light of a full moon."
"It's exquisite," Elias confirmed, taking another sip.
He turned to Nightshade. "Anything planned for today, Nightshade?"
Nightshade cleared his throat. "My lord, it is your first full day here in the Shadowbloom domain. Perhaps you would like to explore the grounds and familiarize yourself with the surroundings?"
"An excellent suggestion, Nightshade," Elias agreed. He rose from his chair, feeling a surge of energy after the delicious breakfast.
Their first stop was the wardrobe, a surprisingly simple yet elegant room. It wasn't yet overflowing with clothes, but few distinct sets of attire awaited Elias' consideration.
Moonshade, eager to please, threw open the doors, revealing a dazzling array of garments fit for royalty.
Elaborately embroidered tunics in vibrant colors adorned the walls, luxurious cloaks adorned with precious jewels gleamed under the light, and sets of gleaming armor stood proudly at attention.
"My lord," Moonshade began, gesturing towards a rack of ornately embroidered tunics, "these garments are crafted from the finest silks, woven by the most skilled artisans in the land. They are truly befitting of your status."
Nightshade chimed in, his gaze drawn to a different section.
"Perhaps something more practical, my lord? This armor, forged from the scales of an ancient dragon, offers unparalleled protection."
He held up a suit of gleaming black armor, its surface catching the light like obsidian.
Elias smiled at their enthusiasm. "Thank you both, your suggestions are appreciated. However, I believe something simpler would suit me today. Perhaps something that allows for ease of movement?"
Moonshade and Nightshade exchanged a subtle glance. A hint of surprise flickered in their eyes, perhaps expecting a more flamboyant choice. Yet, they respected their lord's wishes.
Nightshade bowed slightly, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
"Certainly, my lord," he said, guiding Elias towards a different section of the wardrobe.
There, he found a selection of well-tailored tunics crafted from supple leather and comfortable breeches that promised ease of movement.
But for a touch of authority, he knew a statement piece was needed.
He reached for a magnificent cloak of the deepest black, its rich color absorbing the light in the room. The material felt soft and luxurious, promising warmth and comfort on his travels.
With a nod of approval, Elias held up the garments for their inspection. "This will do for now, I think. The leather tunic and breeches are perfect for exploring, and the black cloak adds a touch of... power, wouldn't you agree?"
****
Stepping out of the expansive chamber, Elias adjusted the dark grey tunic and breeches, the black cloak billowing behind him.
Moonshade and Nightshade flanked him, their faces a mixture of respect and anticipation.
A cool breeze brushed against his face, carrying the fresh scent of the forest.
As they ventured further away from the imposing Shadowbloom tree, Elias couldn't help but voice the question that had been gnawing at him since morning.
"Tell me," he began, his voice laced with curiosity, "why did the tree transform so drastically overnight? And this interior..." he gestured back towards the magnificent entrance, "it feels like a palace, not a living tree."
Moonshade and Nightshade exchanged a hesitant glance. Their expressions mirrored Elias' confusion.
"Truth be told, my lord," Moonshade admitted, "we are as perplexed as you are. After completing our routine patrol yesterday, we returned to find the tree transformed into its current state."
Nightshade chimed in, adding another piece to the puzzle.
"The bathing pool, for example, existed before the transformation. However, the additional rooms and the immense size of the tree itself..." he trailed off, his brow furrowed in thought.
"We believe," Moonshade continued, picking up the thread, "that this might have been preordained by the Ancient One. Perhaps when the rightful heir, the true owner of the Shadowbloom domain, arrived, the tree would awaken to its full potential."
A flicker of doubt crossed Elias' face. "The Ancient One, huh? And this supposed gift... doesn't it seem a bit excessive, even for Prometheus? An entire mansion carved from a living tree?"
Moonshade and Nightshade exchanged another look, a subtle understanding passing between them.
They couldn't deny the extravagance, and while they had served under Prometheus' rule for some time, they weren't entirely privy to the ancient being's grand designs.
"Perhaps," Nightshade offered carefully, "there's more to this than meets the eye. The Shadowbloom tree's transformation might hold a deeper meaning, a secret waiting to be revealed."
Elias nodded slowly, a thoughtful glint in his eyes.
While the answers remained elusive, the possibility of a hidden purpose piqued his curiosity. The Shadowbloom domain held more mysteries than he initially anticipated, and he was determined to unravel them one by one.
Elias, accompanied by Moonshade and Nightshade, embarked on a tour of the transformed domain.
The Shadowbloom tree remained a familiar sight in terms of bark color and leaf type, but its sheer size was astounding.
Bathed in sunlight, its surface blazed with a vibrant green, almost as if emanating an inner light.
The expansion was evident - the tree's roots now encircled the entire hill, appearing like giant tendrils reaching out and anchoring it to the earth.
Four massive roots, thicker than any Elias had ever seen, protruded from the ground, acting as natural dividers for four distinct areas surrounding the tree.
The verdant transformation extended beyond the tree itself. The grass beneath shimmered with an emerald intensity, and every herb and flower seemed to have burst into a riot of color and life.
At each of the hill's four corners, facing west, south, east, and north, a grand staircase materialized.
These weren't mere steps carved from stone, but rather intricate weavings of smaller and medium-sized roots, intertwining to create a breathtaking natural pathway.
Descending the western staircase, which led directly towards the breathtaking Crystal Lake, Elias' steps faltered. A frown etched itself onto his face, mirroring the expressions of Moonshade and Nightshade.
Below them, a diverse gathering of intelligent races stood transfixed, gazing upwards at the transformed tree.
Whispers and murmurs rippled through the crowd, a palpable energy crackling in the air.
The familiar ancient tree, once a revered landmark, had transformed into something magnificent beyond their wildest dreams. The canopy of leaves now resembled a vast, emerald umbrella, extending its protective shade over the entire hill.
Then, their attention shifted to the figures descending the staircase.
They saw Elias, a man of unknown origin, yet adorned in attire that hinted at nobility. But it was the two figures flanking him that truly stole their breath away.
Moonshade and Nightshade, ethereal beings with a timeless aura, were undeniably Ancient Spirits, mythical protectors rarely seen in the mortal realm.
Without hesitation, the gathered crowd fell to their knees, prostrating themselves before the trio.
A wave of reverence washed over the domain as voices, laced with reverence and awe, rose in unison. "Great Ancient Spirits," they proclaimed, their words heavy with respect, "you have returned!"
Confusion and a flicker of surprise flickered across Elias' face.
He had expected questions, perhaps even awe, but this display of absolute devotion caught him off guard.
Moonshade and Nightshade, however, seemed unsurprised. A knowing glint passed between them, hinting at a deeper understanding of the situation.