The bitter cold gnawed at their armor, the howling winds of the alien planet cutting through even their reinforced plating. The sky was a swirl of icy mist, and the ground cracked beneath their every step. They had to seek shelter—fast.

Through the haze, a towering, ancient tree emerged, its trunk massive and sprawling, branches glittering with frost and soft bioluminescent light. It looked almost… magical. The flicker of warmth or life within its core couldn’t be ignored.

The team exchanged cautious glances.

Optimus stepped forward, his optics scanning the intricate patterns in the bark. Something felt alive here. He raised his hand, knocking gently against the immense trunk.

“Hello?…” His deep voice echoed, swallowed by the silence.

The wind hushed. For a moment, nothing moved.

Then, from within, a soft light shifted. And from In the tree… you answered.