CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTEEN – THE FRUIT IS OURS

As the group rested after their successful acquisition of the Tree of Life's fruit, Arryk revealed the next challenge in their quest. "The fourth ingredient," he began, his voice low and reverent, "is a feather from the Quetzal Luminoso, a mythical bird that dwells in the highest reaches of the forest canopy." Erik's brow furrowed. "I've never heard of such a creature." Arryk nodded. "Few have. It's said to be as elusive as it is beautiful. Capturing a feather without harming the bird will be our greatest test of skill and patience yet." Anna felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. "How do we even begin to find it?" "We must climb," Arryk said, pointing upward. "To the very top of the canopy. It's a perilous journey, but it's the only way." As they prepared for the ascent, Anna couldn't help but feel a knot of fear in her stomach. Heights had never been her strong suit, and the thought of climbing to the top of the massive rainforest trees made her palms sweat. Erik, sensing h