Chapter 36

"Listening to what you said, I found it very inspiring, and it led me to reflect on nature, putting me into a meditative state. I am truly grateful," Joseph said, stroking his chin as if there were still a beard there. Realizing his hands were empty, he could only smile awkwardly.

"If I can continue my studies in your Druid community and improve my Common language, I am willing to share these experiences," Zhao Mai said generously. "However, I can only recite them, and my understanding of their meanings is not yet complete, so I may not be able to fully convey them."

"That is enough," Joseph said, waving his hand and drawing moisture from the air to form an ice flower. "Everyone's understanding of nature is different, perhaps in perspective or approach, seeing different landscapes. Some see the birds in the sky, some focus on the beasts on the ground, and others pay attention to the wind in the forest and the soil beneath the grass. I focus on water, including rain, snow, frost, and hail. What you said about the highest good being like water has deeply moved me. I am willing to introduce you to the Druid community and be your sponsor. What do you think?"

"I would be honored," Zhao Mai said. "I want to start learning as soon as possible, but I don't know the rules of the local community."

"Let me think..." Joseph sat by the stone table, tapping his fingers lightly on the surface. Normally, to train a Druid, they would first have them care for the community's animals, familiarize themselves with their habits, and get used to the natural aura. Then they would cultivate herbs, learn about the characteristics of plants, and gain knowledge in herbalism.

This process usually takes two to three years, though some with exceptional talent can complete it in about a year and a half. After that, they would study natural theory, practice meditation, and understand spells.

If following this process, it would take another two to three years before Mike would be introduced to spell theory and learn the Druid language.

Among all languages, the Druid language is very unique, even unique in its own way. Other languages can be learned by anyone willing to teach, regardless of whether they are warriors, priests, or mages. However, the Druid language can only be mastered by becoming a Druid.

This language is integrated with the Druid's thoughts, beliefs, and magical power, making it difficult to separate. It is a specialized language used by Druids to explain their thoughts, describe natural laws, and share insights. If Joseph wanted to understand the ideological essence of Mike's original Druid community, he needed Mike to learn the local Druid language as soon as possible.

"Hmm, you already have a certain foundation, so you don't need to start from scratch. I see that you get along well with animals. Do you have any experience with plants?"

"Of course, I have learned the relevant knowledge," Zhao Mai said, understanding Joseph's implication. "I know many plants, their habits, and some can be used as medicine. However, this world is different from mine in many ways, so for safety, I can start from the beginning."

"That would be a waste of time... Oh, that's not necessary. I think you can study on your own. Repeating the basics would be a waste of time."

"I'll follow your advice," Zhao Mai said, behaving very obediently.

"In that case, I've decided. You can join the visiting Eaglewing Druid apprentices and learn the local spells with them. If you can keep up, you can continue on this path. If not, after learning the Druid language, you can start over, familiarizing yourself with the flora and fauna and the natural environment of this world."

To be able to learn spells! Zhao Mai tried to suppress his excitement and nodded in agreement.

"It's really fortunate, and I'm glad I came looking for you," Joseph said, letting out a long breath. "I'm glad I stuck to my instincts; otherwise, I would have missed out on such a promising young talent."

"Can you tell me more about our Druid community?"

The word "our" made Joseph feel much more positively towards Zhao Mai. He was not a pure-blooded human and was born with a psychic ability that others lacked, which made him an outcast. Even after being adopted by Druids, he remained very isolated. As a child, he couldn't control this ability, either receiving everyone's thoughts and being overwhelmed by the noise or projecting his own thoughts into others' minds. No one liked to play with him, and they always communicated with him in a cold and serious manner.

As he grew older, he gained control over his psychic ability, and the benefits began to show. Combined with Druid knowledge, he could communicate telepathically with animals, making him the best at training animal companions and commanding them in battle. He was proud of himself but also faced some jealousy from his peers. This jealousy did not turn into malicious actions but deepened his sense of isolation and coldness. He had few friends among his peers, and the younger generation only showed respect and distance, rarely saying "our."

"Our Druid community is called the Unbound Walkers, and our core philosophy is to eliminate the barriers between humans and nature. We are a very gentle and tolerant faction."

"Harmony between heaven and humanity?"

Joseph's whole body trembled slightly, a pleasant pulse surged from his feet to his head, making him feel light and airy. His pores suddenly opened, and the natural aura rushed in. This feeling was addictive, and he might become dependent on this young man. Keeping him close for teaching? It might be a good idea, but the risk was significant. Before learning the Druid language, Mike might not be able to express himself correctly, and the psychic ability could lead to misunderstandings, affecting his already formed natural heart.

It's better to keep it this way; one shouldn't be too greedy. He knew the dangers of rushing things.

"You'll understand when you get there," he quickly changed the subject. "The last time we sensed the fluctuation of natural energy, we knew something significant was happening. The elders of the Druid Circle found you by sensing the energy changes in the air, and I cast a spell to communicate with you. At that time, I felt you had great potential, but the elders thought they had the wrong target."

"However, after some reflection, I believed I should still come to find you. There is a connection between you and the Druid community. It seems my intuition was correct; you are indeed very important."

"It's great to be valued. When are we heading back to Farmer's Forest? I can't wait to start learning."

Joseph nodded and said, "Besides finding you, I have some other matters to handle. In five days, I will come to the Hearthfire Tavern to take you back."

"Is there anything I can help with?" Zhao Mai asked enthusiastically.

"Just some daily chores, no need for your help," Joseph instructed. "I suggest you pack your things and buy anything you need in town. Oh, and buy some eggs that can hatch, and we'll take them back with us. There's nothing else to worry about."

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