Adolf traced the meandering path, the more traversed it was the more he was separated from the protective shield of the village and the more desolate it became. Lush trees provided cover above him where their gnarled branches hung creating a natural cathedral where the shafts of the moon sneaked in between the foliage dancing like spotlights above the ground.
While he moved, the hissing grew more dim, and was replaced with the sound of water somewhere far away, a brook, maybe. The weight of the surroundings seemed to increase with an air of enchantment within it, and the stone he clenched in his palm, throbbed, gently, as though keeping pace with his pulse.
After a what appeared to be a whole eon, he located a concealed opening in the greenery. One such left him spellbound: radiant plants emanated an uncanny brightness, coloring the area with shades of violet and azure. There was a crystal clear reservoir in the middle, which too had water but this one had the sky in it.
A pool was bent over by Adolf almost mesmerized. He looked into the liquid and noticed disturbances on the surface, which caused the picture of overhead constellations to shake. Then he made out a face it was so close yet far at the same time. It was his mother and she looked fondly but worried too.
"Adolf," her voice echoed in the air, though her lips did not move. "You must be careful. The forest holds many truths, but not all are meant for you."
His heart raced. "I want to know! I have to know why I'm here!"
The image flickered, and the pool shimmered again, revealing glimpses of the past: shadows of people, lost and wandering, their faces etched with fear. Then, the vision shifted to a towering tree, its roots sprawling deep into the earth, pulsing with energy.
"Find the Tree of Whispers," his mother's voice urged. "It will guide you, but you must be prepared for the cost."
Just as he was about to respond, the vision vanished, and the glade fell silent. Confused and a little frightened, Adolf stepped back from the pool, his heart pounding. He could feel the weight of his mother's warning heavy on his mind.
Determined to find the Tree of Whispers, Adolf turned back to the path, ready to continue his journey. With each step, he felt the echoes of those who had come before him urging him onward. The forest was waiting, and he was about to uncover its secrets.