The ruins that had appeared with the sudden earthquake reminded Leo of an ancient Greek temple. It must have been submerged under the lake for quite some time, yet the interior was remarkably clean, as though it had been newly built.
Leo and Iris carefully stepped onto the stone stairs and moved toward the ruins.
The structure up close was as well-preserved as it had appeared from afar, radiating an eerie atmosphere.
"The Temple of the World Tree," Iris murmured softly, her gaze fixed on the ruins.
"The World Tree?" Leo asked, tilting his head.
"Yes. I've only seen it depicted as a mural left behind in ancient times. But based on the architecture, the golden carvings representing the World Tree's roots etched all over the outer walls and pillars confirm it. This is a temple built thousands of years ago to honor and serve the World Tree," Iris explained, stroking the outer walls as her eyes gleamed with the curiosity of a scholar.