The sun had risen high, but its light barely pierced the thickening canopy above. They had been riding for four hours now, hooves thudding rhythmically against the softening ground as the landscape around them gradually transformed. The signs of civilization—scattered hamlets and humble fences—had become rarer until they disappeared entirely, swallowed by the growing presence of nature.
The plains gave way to rolling hills, and then, slowly, to towering woods. The trees rose taller with each mile, their trunks wide enough to build homes into. Vines spiraled down from the branches like living curtains, and the air grew damp and heavy with the earthy scent of moss and ancient bark.
Kael adjusted her reins, scanning the path ahead. "It's getting denser."
Riven slowed his mount beside her. "Yeah," he said thoughtfully. Then he raised a hand, signaling for them to stop. "Let's take a moment."
Kael looked at him, brow arched. "Why?"
He glanced at the deepening forest, his voice calm. "We're close now. If we ride into Reilhim with our current disguises, it might not be well received. The elves are... particular. Two strangers who look nothing like who the king is expecting? That won't go well."
Kael eyed him curiously. "Is it okay to reveal your appearance here?"
Riven gave a lazy grin. "It sure is. This is the safest place in Varendel, especially the Elven capital. Besides, the king knows we're coming. We'll be fine."
She nodded. "If you say so."
They dismounted, and Kael reached into her satchel. From it, she drew a slender vial filled with a glowing blue liquid. Riven mirrored her motion, uncorking his own. They raised the vials and drank in sync.
Almost instantly, a shimmer passed over them like a mirage dissolving. Kael's long black hair tumbled down once more, catching the faint green light that filtered through the canopy. Her deep violet eyes regained their sharp gleam. Riven's white hair returned, tousled and bright, his blue-green eyes reflecting the dappled light.
Riven sighed dramatically. "Ahhh. I kind of liked the other look. Made me seem mysterious. Fierce."
Kael smirked as she adjusted the strap of her bag. "You're better like this. Makes me less tempted to punch you."
"Funny. Because it was with this face that you did punch me. It hurted, but I liked it so I forgive you."
She stared at him, expression flat. "That's because you deserved it, also I didn't ask for forgiveness. And... why would you like being punched?"
He leaned closer, giving her a crooked grin. "Already told you. You're pretty when you're mad, so I don't mind you hitting me."
Kael let out a fake groan. "Ugh. You make me want to do it again."
He laughed, leaning back in the saddle. "But you won't. You're growing soft on me."
"Shut up."
His laughter continued as they mounted again, now in their true forms, their disguises completely gone. They moved on, but at a slower pace. The forest seemed alive around them, whispering with unseen creatures and rustling with magic.
Then, they came to it.
Two trees stood taller than any others they'd seen so far. Massive and ancient, they arched toward each other like silent sentinels. Their bark shimmered faintly, as if etched with traces of silver and emerald. Vines and glowing blossoms hung from the branches like chandeliers.
Riven brought his horse to a halt. "We're here."
Kael looked around. "What? Where's the kingdom?"
She saw nothing but more forest. No buildings. No roads. Just trees.
Riven chuckled softly. "Wait for it. They're coming to get us."
As if summoned by his words, two elves dropped from the trees ahead of them. Silent as shadows, they landed with the grace of falling leaves. Dressed in forest-toned armor, their long bows rested on their backs.
One of them, with pale green eyes and sharp features, stepped forward. "Are you His Highness Prince Riven, and Lady Kael?"
Riven gave a nod. "Indeed."
The elves exchanged glances. Then the second one, a woman with short silver hair, gestured toward the trees. "Follow us."
Riven and Kael shared a brief look, then nudged their horses forward. The elves turned and led them between the towering trunks.
They were about to enter Reilhim.