Legend of Oasis : A tale of magic and mystery

Chapter 6: Whispering Woods

Everyone in awe and silent...

A ripple of surprise swept through the chamber at Queen Elara's announcement, as the council members exchanged glances of astonishment.

The idea of including younger children in the exam was met with mixed reactions, with some expressing concern for their safety.

Queen Elara's expression softened, her eyes filled with unwavering resolve.

"Rest assured, my dear council members, that every precaution will be taken to ensure the safety of our children during the exam."

"The Orders of Guards and Army stand ready to intervene at a moment's notice, with the Sylvan Guard and Thornwatchers poised to protect our young ones from any potential threats."

A ripple of reassurance spread through the chamber as Queen Elara continued.

"Furthermore, all dangerous mystic beasts of the Whispering Woods have been isolated and contained."

"The remaining monsters and mystic beasts that the children may encounter during their exam have been carefully selected to provide them with valuable lessons in survival and cooperation."

"What do you mean by isolated, My Queen?" Talia inquired, her brow furrowing in concern.

"As you all know, the Whispering Woods is vast and teeming with life," the Queen began, her voice commanding attention.

"It holds countless mysteries, and since the birth of our kingdom, no one has ever fully explored its depths. Let me remind you all that the woods are divided into layers, from the first to the fifth."

"The first layer is the safest, inhabited mostly by F-rank beasts," the Queen continued, her gaze sweeping over the assembled audience.

"Moving deeper, the second layer hosts E-rank and some D-rank beasts, with E-rank beasts prevalent near the first layer and D-rank beasts closer to the third."

"The third layer contains C-rank and B-rank beasts, while the fourth harbors A-rank beasts. However, it is the fourth and fifth layers, known as the Disappearing Whispering Woods, that are the most perilous."

"The fourth layer may hold a few S-rank beasts, but not more than three, whereas the fifth layer is the domain of S-rank beasts," the Queen elaborated, her voice tinged with solemnity.

"Beyond the fifth layer lies the Nefil layer, though this is merely legend."

"To address your inquiry, Talia, we will erect an array barrier in the second layer," the Queen announced, her tone decisive.

"This barrier will be robust enough to prevent anyone from traversing or entering, ensuring they encounter only F and E-rank beasts. Their safety shall be guaranteed within this perimeter."

"Thank you, my Queen," Talia responded respectfully, bowing her head.

"Since the purpose of the exam is to qualify for entry into the Academy and to safeguard our children, a preliminary examination will be conducted," the Queen declared, her voice unwavering.

"Children capable of vanquishing F-rank beasts and causing E-rank beasts to retreat shall qualify for the Whispering Woods exam."

"Those who do not succeed may attempt again next year. We cannot afford to allow anyone to venture into the woods without assurance of their safety."

Queen Elara's proclamation resonated through the chamber, her voice unwavering as she declared, "The exam shall commence in nine months' time, amidst the flourishing season of spring. The preliminary exam will precede it by one month."

"This prolonged period of preparation will afford our children ample opportunity to refine their skills and brace themselves for the trials that lie ahead in the Whispering Woods."

Her words lingered in the air, a solemn vow to both the council members and the populace of Verdantia.

"I harbor complete faith in the abilities of our children to navigate the perils of the Whispering Woods with fortitude and valor. Together, we shall ensure that this year's examination stands as a testament to their resilience and prowess."

"Before we disseminate this decree to the entirety of our realm, send forth invitations to the eight esteemed noble families, summoning them to the palace in one month's time," she instructed the elders with authority.

With a final smile and a nod of her head, Queen Elara turned and made her way to the balcony overlooking the bustling capital below.

As she gazed out at the verdant landscape spread out before her, a sense of pride swelled within her heart.

From her vantage point high above the city, Queen Elara could see the towering treehouses of Sylvaneth, nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Great Forest.

The sparkling rivers snaking their way through the landscape, and the towering mountains that loomed in the distance, all seemed to pulse with life and vitality.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the city, Queen Elara's eyes sparkled with pride and determination.

For in that moment, she knew that the future of Verdantia was in good hands, and that together, they would continue to protect and preserve the natural beauty of their kingdom for generations to come.

As Queen Elara gazed out at her beloved city, a sense of pride swelled within her heart.

With a serene smile on her lips, after some time of gazing, Queen Elara began to gradually unleash her nature magic aura.

It was a power so potent yet comforting, like a warm embrace from the earth itself.

As her aura spread, it echoed throughout Verdantia, enveloping the entire capital in its soothing embrace. The scene of her beautiful aura was so captivating and comforting that it made the whole city pause in awe.

From every corner of Verdantia, voices rose in unison, shouting "Hail Queen Evergreen!" The moment she unleashed her aura, every activity in the capital came to a halt as all eyes turned towards the council tower where she stood on the balcony, a radiant vision of strength and grace.

It was a sight to behold, a testament to her unwavering connection to the land and her people.