Jutia’s revelation in response to Sieg’s confession was world-shaking: Sieg was a High Elf.
Naturally, the person most stunned by this news was Sieg herself.
"I-I’m a High Elf? But how...?"
"Hmm. Since you weren't aware of it yourself... is it possible you ate the Fruit of the World Tree?"
"The Fruit of the World Tree... Y-Yes, I did, some time ago."
Jutia seemed absolutely certain. She suspected the fruit was the root cause of the change.
I remembered that Sieg had indeed eaten the fruit before. Still, I waited for Jutia to elaborate, wondering how it could actually cause an elf to evolve into a High Elf.
"The Fruit of the World Tree is saturated with Lilliwood’s potent magic power. In a sense, it’s a concentrated lump of the magic power of nature. Of course, that alone isn't enough to trigger an evolution, but it acts as a perfect catalyst for an exceptionally talented child."
"...Then, I really am..."
"Yes, yes, there’s no mistake! I’ve encountered many High Elves throughout my life, you see. I would never misidentify a High Elf's magic power. You have undoubtedly evolved into one."
So that was it. Sieg, an elf of immense talent, had consumed the fruit and absorbed a massive amount of natural magic power, triggering her evolution into a High Elf—a special individual among her kind.
I had met one other High Elf, Falce, but I honestly couldn't tell the difference between her and a normal elf just by looking. For a spirit like Jutia, however, a High Elf’s magic power was distinct and unmistakable.
"Does... Does that mean...?"
"It does! I can feel the magic power of nature radiating from you. That’s why I’m certain you’ll be able to use nature magic now without any trouble."
"!"
Sieg looked as though she had been struck by lightning. Her expression was a complex mixture of shock and overwhelming emotion.
Her inability to use nature magic had been a profound source of insecurity for her. It was likely impossible for her to even put her current feelings into words right now.
But one thing was clear: this was a wonderful development.
Watching Sieg’s eyes well up with tears of joy, I couldn't help but smile.