The next morning, the sun rose softly over Silverwood, casting golden light on the palace walls. Princess Elara woke feeling determined. She knew she could not fight the dark shadow alone. She needed friends and help.
First, she went to the castle armory, where Bram, the blacksmith, was shaping metal over a hot fire. Sparks flew into the air like tiny stars.
"Good morning, Princess Elara!" Bram said with a warm smile. He was tall and strong, with arms made from years of hard work.
Elara smiled back. "Good morning, Bram. I need your help."
Bram put down his hammer. "Anything for you, Princess. What do you need?"
Elara showed him the silver sword she had received as a gift. "I want something stronger. Something to protect Silverwood."
Bram nodded. "I will make you a sword like no other. It will shine like the sun and be as light as a feather."
While Bram worked, Elara walked through the village market. The stalls were full of colorful fruits, sweet spices, and fresh bread. Mina, the fruit seller, waved at her.
"Princess Elara! You look worried. What is wrong?"
Elara took a basket from Mina. "The forest is sick. I am going to try to help it. Will you give me food for the journey?"
Mina smiled gently. "Take these apples, berries, and nuts. They will give you strength."
Elara thanked her and moved on to the bakery. Tomas, the baker, handed her a warm loaf of bread.
"Eat this when you feel tired," he said kindly. "It is made with love."
By noon, Elara returned to the palace with her basket full of gifts and her heart full of hope. Lila, her maid, was waiting by the garden gate.
"I heard you are going on a journey," Lila said softly. "Can I come with you?"
Elara thought for a moment. "Yes, Lila. I will need all the help I can get."
That afternoon, as Elara packed her bag, a soft rustling came from the trees. A small creature with bright, glowing eyes stepped into the sunlight.
"Hello, Princess," it said with a shy voice. "I am Kiro, a guardian of the forest."
Elara knelt down. "You know about the shadow?"
Kiro nodded. "Yes. It hurts the trees and animals. But I believe together, we can stop it."
Elara smiled. "Will you help me?"
Kiro's eyes sparkled. "I will."
That evening, Elara, Lila, and Kiro sat under the stars, planning their journey. The path was unknown and dangerous, but with friends and kindness, they were ready.