The Great Thorny Tree

Deep within a dense forest, where thorny brambles form an almost impenetrable barrier, stands a colossal tree so massive it can be seen from space. Its trunk is as strong as steel, and its branches, resembling enormous thorns, are perpetually adorned with small, triangular leaves. Despite its unusual appearance, the tree pulses with a vibrant energy. It provides refuge to a variety of creatures, while its twisted, thorny roots guard a hidden entrance—a gateway to the lair of Jezebel, a mysterious and elusive vampire.

No one knows exactly how long Jezebel has dwelled in this tree or what led her to choose such a home.

The Arrival of Autumn

With the arrival of autumn, the winds intensified and the leaves began to spread across the ground. The grandeur of the tree caused its leaves to cover the entire forest in a breathtaking crimson cloak within a few days.

On a tranquil afternoon, a thunderous and piercing SKREEEECH! echoed from the top of the tree, drawing Jezebel’s attention. She left her lair and looked up at the sky, where she glimpsed the outline of a massive winged creature. Enchanted, she watched the being, which let out one final cry before disappearing over the horizon. With the movement, the tree shook, and many leaves fell.

Amidst the leaves accumulating on the ground, a white feather with orange details caught Jezebel’s eye. As she picked it up, she felt an intense and strange sensation.

"This sensation... even the sound of the wind seems to speak," Jezebel murmured in wonder.

Driven by curiosity, Jezebel decided to explore the forest and enjoy the sunset. During her walk, an unusual voice broke the silence. Approaching, she discovered a small fox.

"Food is really scarce this autumn," the fox remarked.

Jezebel was astonished. "I’m hearing a fox talk!?" she exclaimed.

"Yes, it’s true! I’m Peep. And you, who are you? Where do you come from?" asked the fox.

"I’m Jezebel. That is my home," Jezebel replied, pointing to the Great Tree.

Jezebel took some fruits from her pouch and offered them to the fox.

"You seem hungry. Please, take this."

"Thank you so much! These are my favorite fruits. This is the second time I’ve encountered a creature that can talk with me. You must be a very powerful mage," said Peep, while eating.

"Since I arrived at that tree, my studies in magic have intensified. I feel like I’m tapping into the full power of the natural world," explained Jezebel.

"My master also devoted his life to studying magic and frequently spoke of the great tree concerning local balance. You would have loved to meet him," commented Peep.

"And where is he?" asked Jezebel.

"He’s gone... he left defending nature but did not survive the final battle. Now I’m alone," lamented Peep.

"I’m sorry. I know well the feeling of solitude," said Jezebel.

"It’s alright. But... I’m curious: what is this feather you’re holding?" asked Peep.

"A bird-like creature landed on top of the tree and dropped the feather. Since I touched it, I’ve felt a strong sensation of power and some things have begun to change, including my ability to talk with you," Jezebel explained.

"Come with me. I live in a nearby cave where my master and I used to reside. He left writings that might help understand the feather," suggested Peep.

As the sun set, Jezebel followed Peep to the cave. The feather in her hands seemed to glow brightly, responding to the situation.

"It’s down there!" Peep pointed to a steep slope.

"How will we get down? It looks dangerous, and the sun is setting. We need to hurry," observed Jezebel.

"It’s easy! Just watch!" exclaimed Peep, sliding down the dry leaves.

"I’m not quite sure how to do that, but here I go!" said Jezebel, following Peep.

Upon reaching the bottom, they found a discreet entrance leading to the cave.

"We’ve arrived! It’s this way," said Peep, inviting Jezebel inside.

As night fell, Jezebel entered the cave, marveling at how well hidden the place was.

"Your master really knew how to hide!" Jezebel remarked with a touch of irony.

"You’ll understand why soon," replied Peep, visibly uncomfortable.

Inside the cave, Jezebel discovered a dusty space resembling an old library. As she explored and blew away the dust, the feather in her hands glowed with a magnificent brilliance.

"Hey, this looks different since you arrived," observed Peep, fascinated by the energy from the feather.

Among the many books, one volume stood out on a high shelf.

"What’s that book?" asked Jezebel.

"My master devoted his life to studying this tome and used to warn that even touching it could be fatal for the unprepared. I’m not sure if it’s a good idea, but... feel free to explore it if you think you should," said Peep.

Jezebel approached the shelf, and with each step, the feather shone more brightly. Facing the tome, she touched it with determination.

"The feather seems to be guiding you!" exclaimed Peep.

Carefully, Jezebel lifted the heavy volume and placed it on a nearby table. As she blew off the dust, an enigmatic Omega symbol revealed itself on the cover.

"Remarkable. This is exactly what I needed!" declared Jezebel.

At that moment, the feather, the mysterious knowledge of Omega, and Peep’s presence seemed to be in perfect harmony.

"Shall we head home? I have much to learn from this tome," Jezebel asked with a smile.

"Are we... going? You and me?" Peep asked, taken aback.

Jezebel approached the fox and knelt before him.

"You’re part of this now. Without your help, I would never have reached this point. It would be a pleasure if you joined me."

Jezebel returned to the Great Thorny Tree, now accompanied by Peep and a powerful tome full of secrets to unravel.

What mysteries does the tome hold? Will Jezebel be able to uncover them completely?

The answer is yet to come, and the harmony between Jezebel and Peep may be the key to the path ahead.

Entered by: 0x91Aa…97f9 and preserved on chain (see transaction)