When The Sage Rat placed his paw on the book, a blinding light engulfed the entire space. Yet, the brilliance did not hurt his eyes. Instead, each ray seemed to seep into his body, bringing a warm, invigorating energy.
Before him appeared a flowing river of light, not made of water but of shimmering characters and images. The river seemed alive, whispering ancient words from millennia past, resonating like a symphony of wisdom.
"The Sage Rat" the familiar voice echoed once more, this time as if it emanated from the river itself. "This is the River of Knowledge, where all stories, lessons, and dreams of Arboris Magna converge. You may draw from it whatever you seek, but beware. Once you touch the river, you must face the deepest desires of your heart."
The Sage Rat nodded, his eyes shining with determination. "I do not seek power, nor do I seek glory. I only want the truth—to understand the world and myself."
The river trembled, as if responding to his words. A small tributary broke away, advancing toward him and swirling around The Sage Rat. It lifted him into the air, surrounding him with glowing characters and vivid images, each one imbued with the weight of profound knowledge.
"You have been chosen" the voice declared again "but to grasp the truth, you must face one final trial: The Darkness Within. You will step into a space where your desires and fears come alive. Only by overcoming them will you prove worthy of true knowledge."
Another portal opened, leading to a realm of utter darkness. There was no light, no sound—just an endless void.
The Sage Rat took a deep breath. He did not fear the dark, but this felt different. It was not an ordinary darkness, but the darkness of his own mind—a place where long-buried fears might rise.
"I am ready" he said, stepping into the portal without hesitation.
As he passed through, the darkness swallowed him whole. Around him, an oppressive silence reigned. Then, gradually, images began to form—scenes of a world dominated by ambition and power, where knowledge was weaponized to control and destroy.
A voice spoke, no longer stern but temptingly sweet:
"You could have it all. Power, glory, immortality. Simply abandon your trivial humility. Who needs the truth when you can rule instead?"
The Sage Rat stared into the darkness that mocked him. "No. Truth is the only thing that matters. Nothing can replace it."
The darkness roared, then dissolved like mist under sunlight. Before him, the radiant river of knowledge reappeared, more brilliant than ever.
"You have prevailed" the voice said one final time, filled with pride. "Now, the truth belongs to you."
The Sage Rat continued forward, drawing closer to the heart of the River of Knowledge.