We strolled slowly through the brightly lit streets of El-Anner, and as I looked around, I did my best to hide my astonishment. The capital of the elves was unlike anything I had ever seen: tall towers adorned with intricate patterns seemed to float in the air; the scents of flowers and herbs filled the soft breeze. Small squares were decorated with fountains that shimmered with a gentle light. It felt as though every corner of the city was imbued with ancient magic, emanating peace and harmony.

Sianna walked slightly ahead, her steps growing more confident, and her face shone with joy at returning home. I didn’t know how to start a conversation, but I couldn’t hold back when another glimpse of the capital's luxurious decor nearly overwhelmed me.

— I have to admit, it’s truly… breathtaking here, — I exhaled, trying to find the right words.

— Sianna, forgive my bluntness, but who are you really?

She stopped, turned slightly, and smiled. There was no hint of reproach in her gaze, only a soft glimmer of understanding.

— I am… the daughter of the king and queen of El-Anner, Ellard, — she confessed quietly, as if afraid to shatter the delicate tranquility of the moment. — But for me, it’s more than just a title. My family has ruled this people for thousands of years, and my entire life, all my aspirations are connected to this in one way or another.

Sianna’s words sounded almost ordinary, but I couldn’t help but feel respect for her strength and responsibility. The daughter of the king and queen, the princess of the elves… My salvation turned out to be much more significant than I had imagined.

What a twist. And now what? Upbringing dictates that I maintain a dignified demeanor, but this is

a princess. The girl sitting next to me is risking her life like any ordinary person…

— Thank you for trusting me, — I said, trying to speak simply, without any formality. — Now

I understand why you longed for this place, for home.

We continued our journey, talking about more everyday things. She told me about her favorite spots in the city, the flowers they grow here, and the fountains where silvery water flows in an eternal stream. I caught her words and thought about how her soul seemed connected to this place.

We approached the palace gates, towering before us like a living embodiment of ancientness and grandeur. The gates were made of white stone, adorned with silver patterns that shimmered in the night. Wide staircases framed by blooming shrubs led up to them. Silver trees surrounded the palace, their leaves resembling fabric made of moonlight. The guards at the entrance were clad in armor that sparkled in the dim light of magical lamps.

Sianna paused for a moment, gazing at the gates as though finding something familiar and important within them. I could see her eyes fill with light, as if each stone of this place energized her. One of the guards, noticing us, widened his eyes.

— Princess Sianna! — he hurriedly gestured to his companions. — Immediately inform the royal family of the princess’s return!

Another guard left his post and vanished into the depths of the palace. The chief guard turned to me again, his voice softer and warmer.

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— We are grateful to you, man, for your nobility and courage. Your bravery deserves respect, — he added with a serious expression, but for a moment his eyes sparkled gently, as if in acknowledgment.

I merely nodded, unable to find words. Everything was happening so fast, so unexpectedly.

We entered inside, and I sensed that the atmosphere of the palace differed from the rest of the city.

It was quiet here, but every detail—from the lamps to the moldings—spoke of great history and magic. The walls were adorned with delicate patterns, glowing crystals hung from the ceiling, filling the corridors with a soft light. The air here was warm, with a faint scent of fresh flowers.

I caught a glimpse of servants who swiftly passed by us. They moved smoothly and quietly, almost like shadows, but in every movement, there was a restrained strength and focus.

“This world is so different from everything I have known. Here, everything is alive, glowing, like the very embodiment of magic. It feels as if every stone here carries the memories of centuries…”

Suddenly, light footsteps were heard, and we saw the king and queen approaching us. The king, tall and stately, exuded nobility and confidence. His light hair and piercing eyes looked at me with curiosity and gratitude. The queen—beautiful and graceful, as if woven from light itself—came to Sianna and embraced her, unable to contain her emotions.

— Sianna… You have returned, — she whispered with a gentle smile. Tears of joy sparkled in her eyes.

Sianna, smiling, turned to her parents and began to recount what had happened. I stood slightly aside, giving her the opportunity to share this important moment, but soon the king turned to me.

— I do not know how to express our gratitude, young Ellard, — he said, his voice firm yet filled with sincerity. — You performed a noble act by saving our daughter at the risk of your own life. For that, we wish to offer you the hospitality of our home. Rest, you are completely safe with us.

I nodded, grateful for their appreciation, but with a slight awkwardness, I tried to protest.

— Thank you, Your Majesty. But I must return; my family is probably worried…

The queen leaned slightly toward me and, with a warm smile, gently interrupted:

— We understand your concern for your family, Ellard. But allow us to extend our hospitality and give you a chance to regain your strength after such a difficult journey. In the morning, we will invite you to a council to discuss the details of what happened.

Sianna cast a warm glance at me, as if wanting to persuade me to stay.

— Please, Ellard, stay at least for this night, — she said earnestly.

I took a deep breath, realizing that I didn’t want to refuse. After all, the day had been challenging.

— All right, — I finally agreed, nodding gratefully to the royal family. — I will accept your hospitality.

The king and queen exchanged warm looks and then summoned servants to lead me to my quarters, where I could rest.

I was escorted to a spacious room, the walls adorned with soft tapestries featuring forest motifs. In the center of the room stood a large canopied bed, with a plush carpet on the floor, and beside the window, there was a bath filled with warm water. I couldn’t hide my slight astonishment.

“It seems that they do not skimp on the comfort of their guests...”

Setting aside my sword and removing my dirty clothes, I approached the bath and immersed myself in the warm water. My body instantly relaxed, and I felt relief wash over me. For a moment, I closed my eyes, feeling the fatigue leave my muscles.

After the bath, I changed into clean clothes that the servants had left for me and lay down on the bed. The softness of the bed enveloped me in warmth, and I allowed my thoughts to wander for a while.

“I never thought I would have such a day—saving a princess, traveling to the capital of the elves. But the world is bigger than I could have imagined. Tomorrow, I will have a conversation with the king… I wonder what they think of me?”

With these thoughts, feeling a pleasant heaviness from fatigue and the richness of the day, I closed my eyes and soon fell asleep, sinking into a world of dreams.