Chapter 6: The Enigmatic Encounter

The journey through the dense forest continued, and as the group ventured deeper, the atmosphere grew increasingly mystical. Shafts of sunlight filtered through the ancient trees, casting a golden glow on the forest floor, and the air was filled with the soothing hum of nature.

Birnu Jha, still leading the way with his trademark enthusiasm, couldn't help but marvel at the forest's beauty. His Gonu Jha-like goofiness had given way to a sense of wonder as they approached the rumored dwelling of Sage Suryadev.

Meera, ever the pragmatic herbalist, couldn't help but express her concern. "What do we know about Sage Suryadev? What if he doesn't wish to be found?"

Birnu winked playfully at her. "Don't worry, dear Meera. I have a knack for finding solutions, even in the most unpredictable situations."

As they ventured deeper into the forest, they stumbled upon a clearing unlike any they had seen before. At its center stood a massive, ancient tree, its branches stretching toward the heavens. The tree's bark was etched with intricate symbols and runes, some of which Birnu recognized from the stone altar.

"This must be the Tree of Knowledge," Birnu whispered, his Birbal-like wisdom taking over. "Legend has it that Sage Suryadev imparts his wisdom through this tree."

The townsfolk gathered around the tree, anticipation hanging in the air. Birnu approached the tree and, with a theatrical flourish, began reciting the cryptic incantation they had uncovered.

As he spoke the words, the tree's leaves rustled in response, and a gentle, soothing voice emanated from the bark. "You seek knowledge, travelers. What brings you to my realm?"

Birnu, his heart pounding with excitement, replied, "We come seeking answers to dispel the darkness that looms over Birnupur. The Whispering Willow has guided us here, and we believe you hold the key to completing the ancient ritual."

The tree's voice grew even gentler. "To unlock the full incantation, you must prove your worthiness by solving a riddle. Answer correctly, and the ritual shall be revealed."

The townsfolk held their breath as Sage Suryadev's riddle echoed through the clearing:

"I am hidden in the day and found at night,

A celestial body that gives us light.

I wax and wane, my phases a delight,

What am I, in the sky's grand sight?"

Birnu furrowed his brow, pondering the riddle carefully. His Birbal-like intellect was put to the test as he considered the celestial body described in the verses.

After a moment, a grin spread across Birnu's face. He stepped forward and confidently declared, "The answer is the Moon!"

The tree rustled with approval. "Well done, traveler. You have proven your wisdom. The full incantation is now revealed to you."

With the riddle solved, the tree began to whisper the remaining verses of the incantation. The townsfolk listened intently, committing the words to memory. They were now armed with the knowledge to complete the ancient ritual.

As the last word echoed through the clearing, the tree fell silent once more, its role fulfilled. The townsfolk, led by Birnu Jha, made their way back to the stone altar with newfound purpose. They were determined to perform the ritual and dispel the looming darkness that threatened Birnupur.

But what they didn't yet understand was that the forest held more secrets and challenges in store for them. Sage Suryadev's riddle was just the beginning of their enigmatic encounter, and they were about to uncover a world of magic and wonder beyond their wildest dreams.