The tallest cluster of fungi pulsed gently in response, sending faint, glowing spores into the air. A soft, almost musical voice emanated from the soil—an echo of life rather than speech. "Show us the Grove. Show us the care. Only then will we follow."
Renkai set the first bowl near a spiral of the fungi. The water shimmered and spread a gentle warmth into the earth. Serelyth hovered nearby, radiating a protective glow. Maelin and Patricia laid down small arrangements of leaves and stones, creating a symbolic path for the fungi to travel if they chose.
After several tense moments, the fungi began to respond. Spirals uncurled, tendrils extended, and tiny glowing spores drifted toward the offerings. Slowly, small clusters began to detach from the soil, forming a trail that followed the girls as they prepared to return to the Grove.
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Returning to the Grove
