The Elder
After asking people for directions, I head toward the giant emerald tree in the center of the city, where I’m told the Elder of Emerald City resides. That tree, which gave the city its name, is the city’s symbol and seems to serve as a source of comfort for the people. As I get closer, I’m overwhelmed by its size. As if it were alive, every single leaf glows, emitting a gentle light.
At the base of the Emerald Tree stands a small house, which is said to be the Elder’s home. I knock on the door. After a moment, the door opens, and an elderly man appears. With a gentle smile, he addresses me. “Welcome, traveler. I am the Elder of this town. I’ve heard about you from the townspeople. I understand you possess a lyre that plays the melody of hope.”
I greeted Elder. “Elder, it’s a pleasure to meet you. My name is Mitam. I’m traveling to turn this world into a true paradise.” Elder invited me inside. The interior was simple but warm and inviting. The walls were adorned with old books and paintings, giving the room a sense of history. The Elder offers me a chair and brews some tea. “Mr. Mitam, I’ve heard that, as the Creator, you brought life to this world. That is truly wonderful. However, distortions still remain in this world. How do you intend to confront them?” I tell the Elder about my journey so far, my battle against the distortions, and the seeds of hope. “I wish to continue giving people hope by playing the harp of Atlantis and sowing the seeds of hope. And I would like to learn from a wise person like you the knowledge needed to confront the distortion.”
The Elder listened to my words and nodded deeply. “Your idea is wonderful. However, hope alone is not enough to confront the distortion. We need knowledge, skills, and, above all, the cooperation of the people.” The Elder stood up and picked up an ancient book hanging on the wall. “This book contains the records of an ancient civilization. It may contain information about the root cause of the Distortion and how to counter it. I’ll entrust this book to you.” I accepted the book from the Elder and expressed my gratitude. “Thank you. I will read it carefully and treasure it.” The Elder smiled as he spoke to me. “Mitamu, I believe you can save this world. You have the power to do so. Do your best.” Encouraged by the Elder’s words, I reaffirmed my resolve to set out on my journey once more. With the book in hand, I headed to the library in Emerald City in search of new knowledge. My quest is not yet over.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
