章節 39: The 3rd Floor
As Strawberry, Muffin, and Quinella stepped out of the dense forest canopy and into a clearing, they were greeted by the breathtaking sight of Aruyt, the main settlement of the third floor. Nestled high among the trees, the village was a stunning example of harmony between nature and architecture. The sunlight streaming through the dense foliage created shimmering patches of golden light that illuminated the settlement's intricate network of treehouses and rope bridges.
The centerpiece of Aruyt was an enormous tree, its trunk so wide that it could take twenty players holding hands to circle its base. Its thick branches extended outward and upward like protective arms, cradling numerous wooden platforms and structures. Each treehouse seemed to grow organically from the tree itself, with walls of polished timber and roofs woven from leaves and vines. The design was elegant yet simple, reflecting the Faune's deep connection to nature.
From the base of the great tree, waterfalls cascaded down from hidden springs above, their cool, crystalline waters pooling into streams that ran through the village before disappearing into the forest beyond. The sound of the water was soothing, blending with the faint rustle of leaves and the distant calls of forest birds. Mist from the falls rose gently into the air, catching the sunlight and creating rainbows that arched across the village—a natural beauty that left even Muffin wide-eyed as he perched on Strawberry's shoulder.
The settlement's structure was anything but linear. Wooden walkways and rope bridges, suspended high above the forest floor, connected the various platforms and buildings. The bridges swayed gently with each step, but their sturdy craftsmanship ensured safety. Below, shallow pools reflected the vibrant greens of the foliage above, creating a mirrored world that felt almost magical.
"Wow," Quinella breathed, her violet eyes wide with wonder as she took in the scene. "It's… beautiful. Almost like something out of a dream."
Strawberry, usually composed and stoic, found herself nodding in agreement. "Yeah. It's… something else. I've never seen anything like it."
Muffin let out a small chirp, his tiny nose twitching as he sniffed the fresh air. He seemed as awestruck as his companions, tilting his head to take in the sights and sounds of Aruyt.
The entrance to the settlement was a large wooden bridge formed from a massive tree trunk, its surface polished smooth from years of use. At either end of the bridge stood Faune guards, their long, fur-covered ears twitching attentively as they watched the group approach. The guards were clad in simple leather armor adorned with leaves and vines, their weapons—hunting bows and daggers—resting at their sides. Their keen eyes followed every movement, their connection to the forest making them hyper-aware of any disturbances.
"Harm not the forest, and the forest will not harm you," one of the guards said, his tone calm but commanding.
"We understand," Quinella replied respectfully, inclining her head. Strawberry did the same, her masked face giving the guards little to read, but her body language was neutral and non-threatening.
The guards studied them for a moment before nodding and stepping aside to allow passage.
As they walked into the village proper, the atmosphere shifted. The air was cooler and filled with the faint, sweet scent of wildflowers and moss. The Faune themselves were everywhere, their tall, lithe forms moving gracefully across the platforms and bridges. Their long, fur-covered ears twitched as they worked, their claw-like fingers expertly weaving ropes, repairing structures, or tending to gardens of medicinal herbs. Their clothing was simple but elegant, made from natural materials like cotton, leather, and woven grasses, all dyed in earthy tones.
The market area was a hub of activity. Stalls crafted from tree branches and woven vines lined the platforms, offering wares unique to the Faune culture. Wooden carvings of animals and forest spirits, jewelry made from polished stones and crystals, and intricate bows and arrows were displayed alongside baskets of fruits, nuts, and rare herbs. The vendors called out to passersby in a lilting, melodic dialect, their voices blending seamlessly with the natural ambiance of the village.
Quinella paused at one of the stalls, her gaze lingering on a beautifully carved amulet in the shape of a crescent moon. "Their craftsmanship is incredible," she remarked, running her fingers over the smooth wood.
Strawberry, meanwhile, was focused on taking in the details of the settlement itself. She noted how seamlessly the Faune had integrated their homes into the natural structure of the trees, using no nails or bolts but instead relying on vines and branches to hold everything together. It was a testament to their respect for the forest—a stark contrast to the Fae's rumored manipulation of nature for selfish gain.
They wandered further into the village, occasionally drawing curious glances from the Faune. Humans were rare in Aruyt, and while most of the NPCs seemed indifferent, some regarded them with a mix of curiosity and caution. A few children with oversized ears peeked out from behind tree trunks, giggling as Muffin chirped and wiggled his nose in their direction.
Finally, they reached a large central platform where a wide, circular gathering area had been built around the base of the great tree. Benches made of moss-covered logs surrounded a shallow pool of water, its surface reflecting the intricate carvings etched into the tree's bark. The carvings depicted scenes of forest life, with animals and Faune figures intertwined in harmonious patterns.
Quinella turned to Strawberry, her expression contemplative. "This place feels… untouched by the chaos of the floors we've seen so far. It's hard to believe anything dangerous could exist here."
Strawberry nodded, though she remained wary. "It's beautiful, sure. But looks can be deceiving. Let's not let our guard down."
Muffin squeaked in agreement, his ears twitching as he huddled closer to Strawberry. The little bunny seemed as enchanted as they were but was equally on edge, his instincts telling him to stay alert.
As they rested briefly in the central square, Strawberry couldn't shake the feeling that the third floor was hiding something far more dangerous than its serene surface suggested. The Dark Thicket loomed in the distance, its misty borders visible even from here. And beyond that, the rumored Fae realm, Faerie, awaited.
For now, though, they were content to soak in the peace of Aruyt, knowing full well that their journey into the unknown was only just beginning.
每周推薦票狀態
-- 推薦票
榜單 
-- 推薦票