Pleo, brimming with curiosity and newfound understanding, hurried back to Master Raekon's chamber, the weight of the book still fresh in his mind. His thoughts swirled with questions, and while he had uncovered a piece of the book's secret, he knew there was much more to learn. As he approached the wise old master, the questions poured out of him.
"Master Raekon, I… I think I've begun to understand the book," Pleo said breathlessly. "It's not about controlling the earth or even mastering it. It's about connecting with it, listening to it. But I still have so many questions. How did King Trallod learn these things? How do I—"
Master Raekon raised a hand, signaling for Pleo to slow down. His sharp eyes gleamed as he smiled warmly, the kind of smile that hinted at both wisdom and the realization that his student was beginning to walk the right path.
"Ah, Pleo," Raekon said gently, "now you are starting to understand. This book… it is not a guide, nor is it a simple set of instructions. It's a journey. The questions you have now, they are the beginning of your true learning."
Pleo furrowed his brow. "But… how can I find the answers? I've spent days trying to unlock the book's secret, and I only scratched the surface."
Raekon nodded. "That is precisely the point, my young pupil. The earth is ancient, more ancient than you or I can ever truly comprehend. It holds secrets that go far beyond even the knowledge of King Trallod. He, too, struggled with this same understanding throughout his life. The earth does not reveal its secrets to those who demand answers. It only responds to those who are patient enough to listen."
"But Master," Pleo continued, "why does the book leave me with more questions than answers?"
Raekon's eyes twinkled with wisdom as he placed a hand on Pleo's shoulder. "That is because true learning, true mastery, is never about knowing all the answers from the start. It is about discovery. The earth is a living thing, and it requires time, effort, and most of all, respect. Just as King Trallod wrote in his youth, the more you seek control over the earth, the more elusive it becomes."
Pleo was silent for a moment, absorbing the truth of Raekon's words. It made sense now. The frustration he had felt trying to unlock the book's secrets was misplaced. He had approached the earth as something to be conquered, rather than something to be understood.
"So, I need to learn more, discover more on my own," Pleo said thoughtfully. "The book is only a starting point, isn't it?"
Raekon nodded, his gaze steady. "Yes, Pleo. You are not just reading the words of King Trallod. You are embarking on a journey similar to his. The earth holds answers, but it will not give them up freely. You must become a student of the earth itself, just as King Trallod did."
"But how will I know if I'm on the right path?" Pleo asked, feeling the enormity of the task ahead of him.
Raekon smiled once more. "The earth will tell you. It may be through a small tremor beneath your feet, or the way the soil shifts when you least expect it. The signs are subtle, but they are there for those willing to listen. Patience, my boy. In time, the earth will speak more clearly to you. And when it does, you will be ready."
Pleo nodded, his heart filled with determination and a sense of purpose. The questions that plagued him no longer felt overwhelming—they were challenges he was willing to face. He understood now that his path would be long, but it would be worth it. He wasn't just following in King Trallod's footsteps; he was forging his own connection with the earth.
"I'll return to my training," Pleo said with renewed focus. "I'll keep listening, and I'll learn."
"Good," Master Raekon replied. "Remember, the earth is both a teacher and a companion. Treat it with the respect it deserves, and it will guide you well."
As Pleo left Raekon's chamber, the book clutched in his hands, he felt a sense of peace wash over him. This wasn't a race to power or mastery—it was a journey of understanding. And in that moment, Pleo knew he was ready to take his next step.
The earth beneath him rumbled ever so slightly, as if acknowledging his resolve.