In a barren, post-apocalyptic wasteland, a young man named Emrys lies motionless on the frozen ground, shielding a fragile sapling beneath him. His tattered body shelters the seedling from the icy winds, warmed by the last of his fleeting strength.
Once nurtured by stories of lush forests and vibrant life from his caregiver, Emrys had carried this sapling—their final gift—across a deadly desert. "Protect it," they had whispered with trembling hands, placing the seedling in his grasp. "It's the world's only hope."
Though weakened by toxic air and relentless storms, Emrys persevered, planting the sapling in a rare patch of fertile soil he had discovered. As night fell and the cold tightened its grip, he whispered his last prayer: "Grow strong... for those who come after."
When the sun rose, Emrys was gone, but the sapling stretched toward the light, its leaves unfurling for the first time. Over time, the tree grew tall, nourished by the soil and the life Emrys had given it.
Years later, survivors stumbled upon the thriving tree. Beneath its shade, they found Emrys' remains, embraced by its roots. They named it "The Guardian's Gift" and planted its seeds across the desolate land. Slowly, green life returned, rivers flowed, and the air grew sweet once more.
Though Emrys was gone, his sacrifice lived on in every leaf, every bird's song, and every life sheltered by the forest he helped revive.