Root Mother

So... another seeks the Root's counsel.

Closer child... it's you. The one who washed ashore.

We see all things. We are the Root Mother, a vessel of wisdom through which the Root speaks.

What is it you seek?

• How do I get through the storm around the atoll?

• The storm? The shield... The cloak that conceals the inevitable end... Has the hour come?

• Yes. Clearer it becomes. You seek to end the Root, but the path is hidden.

• This vessel knows the road you seek.

• Help we must, but not where ears can hear.

• They will come for us when bonds we break.

• Will you protect? Will you trust?

• I will protect you. Do what you have to do.

• I have questions first.

• But I cannot answer what they must not know, not while furled within their boughs.

• We know how to find the path you seek, but they must not hear.

• Protect us you must or nothing will be learned.

• Who are you?

• This vessel? Once a child.

• Now a watcher awaiting the end of a beginning, a prophecy ... you.

• Wait. I will return.

• I'm looking for the Founder, he came to see you.

The portent returns. Have you anything of the Root for me?

• I'd like to see what you can upgrade.

• This may help you on your journey.

• Tell me again, how do I find the Labyrinth?

• Look to a great shimmering light in the sky. The path to its source is protected by a monstrous Root creature.

• Slay the beast, seek the light beyond, and the Keeper of the Labyrinth will make himself known to you.

• Were you... human, once?

• Dreams only, faded and tattered. "The Founder"... Andrew and I, were together before the Root.

• Now the memory wanes. I bear its burden no longer.

• Farewell.

• To fare at all is well, child.