Inquiry
What is the significance of the saplings seen throughout Chrono TriggeR?
Answer
Three saplings are seen throughout the game. The first was made by Melchior and given to a woman in Zeal; it was later planted by this woman after the fall. The second was seen inside Fiona's hut, and was presumably planted by her to restore the forest. The third and last appearance came in 2300 A.D.; this sapling grew out of a seed held by a dead Arris Dome man who ventured underground to find food. The first seed is the only to play an active role in changing history, as it allows the Fiona's Forest Sidequest. But do these seeds really have mystical qualities? The first clearly allowed Fiona's Forest to hang on long enough to allow the Sunken Desert to be exposed and entered by the time travelers. The second seed probably assisted in Robo's restoration of the forest, and the third gave hope for the people of the ruined future (and presumably was going to bear fruit before history was changed).
Though it is not stated explicitly, these saplings can be thought of as descending from the one created by Melchior in 12000 B.C. They all play a role in replenishing hope. The Japanese version, however, does directly state the seeds have power.
でも命の賢者様からいただいたこのわかぎを、女王様はもやしてしまえと……。 緑を守る力を持った不思議なわかぎだと賢者様はおっしゃっていたのに……。[END]
However, the Queen has ordered that this sapling, given by the Guru of Life, be burned... Even though the Guru said it is mysterious, and has the power to protect greenery.
