Grand Chieftain

The stairs that had been carrying them smoothly up the World Tree came to a stop.

They had stopped at a point even higher than the altitude they had reached by sky carriage.

Contrary to Ferda's expectation that the air would be harsh and cold because they were higher than a mountain, it was calm and warm.

Rize gestured toward the entrance.

At once, the grain of the World Tree flexibly shifted and parted, as though it had become hundreds of intertwining branches.

A long corridor leading inside opened before them.

“If you follow this corridor, you will reach a place called Mother's Heart. The Grand Chieftain is waiting there.”

Rize clenched both hands into fists and gave them an energetic cheer.

“I'll wait here. I hope you have a pleasant conversation!”

Once the entrance behind them closed, Ferda brought up something he had been holding back...