The branches of the Tree of Life shimmered faintly, as if moonlight itself had settled upon its leaves. Where there had been nothing before, a single small fruit now hung from one of its lower branches. It glowed softly, warm and alive, pulsing with a gentle light that made the air around it feel different, more sacred.

Before Gavriel could even stand, footsteps approached.

Elior entered the hidden garden, his weathered face lifted toward the tree, eyes shining with quiet awe. The moment he ...