Oliver wandered deeper into the forest, his curiosity leading him to this peculiar tree. As he approached, the air seemed to hum with an inexplicable energy. "Hello, young traveler," the tree spoke, its voice a deep, resonant whisper that echoed through the clearing.
[@ch_1]Oliver[/@ch_1_d] stared in awe, his mind racing. "Did you just speak?" he asked, incredulous. [@ch_2]The Wise Tree[/@ch_2_d] replied, "Indeed, I did. I have a riddle for you. Solve it, and you shall discover a treasure of kindness." "What has roots as nobody sees, is taller than trees, up, up it goes, and yet never grows?"
[@ch_1]Oliver[/@ch_1_d] thought hard, his brow furrowed in concentration. "A mountain," he finally said, a smile breaking across his face. [@ch_2]The Wise Tree[/@ch_2_d] chuckled, a sound like wind through leaves. "Correct. Look beneath the stone by my roots for your first treasure of kindness."
[@ch_1]Oliver[/@ch_1_d] lifted the stone to find a small, intricately carved wooden box. Inside lay a note, written in elegant script. "Share a smile, and you will find it returned tenfold," it read. [@ch_1]Oliver[/@ch_1_d] nodded, understanding the simple yet profound truth.
[@ch_2]The Wise Tree[/@ch_2_d] continued, "I have another riddle, if you are willing. It can be cracked, made, told, and played. What is it?" [@ch_1]Oliver[/@ch_1_d] pondered, recalling games with friends and stories shared.
Oliver[/@ch_1_d] grinned, the answer clear. "A joke," he said, and [@ch_2]the tree[/@ch_2_d] nodded approvingly. "Well done. Discover the joy of laughter, and kindness will always be near," it advised, as [@ch_1]Oliver felt a warmth in his heart, the true treasure of the forest.