As they continued their journey to the river, Kira marveled at the transformation of the landscape around the outskirts of ZeroCity. The trees were much denser and taller than she remembered, their canopies creating a vibrant, green roof overhead. Oversized, harmless animals—rabbits the size of dogs, deer with majestic antlers—dotted the scenery, going about their lives with an ease that seemed almost surreal. The air was filled with the scent of flowers and the chirping of birds, a stark contrast to the last time she was here.

Kira couldn’t help but voice her amazement. "This place... it's incredible. So much greener and wilder than I remember.”

The strangers, sensing Kira's awe and confusion, exchanged glances before one of them spoke up. "Was it not like this, in your time, Master?"

Kira shook her head, a bitter smile tugging at her lips. "No, it wasn't." The words echoed in her mind—"in your time." They underscored the vast chasm of years she was beginning to comprehend.

She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the worst. "How long has it been since... the apocalypse?"

The central stranger met her gaze, his eyes filled with a mix of sympathy and sadness. "It has been 289 years, Master."

The truth hit her like a tidal wave, sending her to her knees. "Two hundred and eighty-nine years?" she whispered, the enormity of it crashing down on her. The realization that Vicky, her dear friend, could no longer be alive gnawed at her heart.

She stood abruptly, her eyes blazing with a mixture of sorrow and fury. Without a word, she strode towards a towering tree nearby. The strangers watched in silent apprehension as she clenched her fists, her body trembling with pent-up emotion. With a roar, she punched the tree with all her might. The immense force shattered the tree into splinters, debris flying in all directions leaving nothing but a crater where it once stood.

The strangers could only stand and witness her outburst, understanding that she needed to process the overwhelming truth in her own way.

Breathing heavily, Kira turned to them, her eyes still glistening with unshed tears. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice raw with emotion. "It's just... everything and everyone I knew is gone."

The central stranger stepped forward, his voice gentle. "We understand, Master. This world is new to you, and the loss is immense.”

Kira took a deep breath, steadying herself. "Thank you for understanding," she said, her voice still shaky but laced with gratitude. "It's just... a lot to take in."

The strangers nodded in unison, their expressions respectful. They resumed their journey, the lush jungle around them a constant reminder of the time that had passed. As they walked, Kira's curiosity got the better of her.

"Can you introduce yourselves?" she asked, glancing at each of them in turn. "And tell me why did you bring me back?"

The central figure, an elven man with piercing blue eyes, spoke first. "I am Khazel."

Next, a graceful elven woman with an air of quiet authority nodded. "I am Giona."

The third, a more robust and muscular elf, added, "And I am Horm."

Kira acknowledged each of them with a nod. "And what exactly is your role here?"

Giona stepped forward, her expression earnest. "We are the Keepers of the Truth, Master. It is our duty to ensure that the origin of our people—the elven race—remains known. And we are also tasked with assisting the Savior when she awakens."

Kira couldn't suppress a cringe at the grandiosity of their titles and mission. It sounded like something out of a fantasy novel, far too corny for her taste. In her time, such declarations would be met with ridicule. "The Keepers of the Truth?" she echoed, her tone incredulous. "You actually call yourselves that?"

Khazel, sensing her disbelief, nodded solemnly. "Yes, Master. It is a sacred duty passed down through generations."

Kira rolled her eyes, the absurdity of it all almost too much to bear. "Right. And what's your grand purpose for waking me up?"

Khazel's expression became serious. "That can only be revealed when you meet the King."

Frustration flared within Kira. "The King? Why can't you just tell me now? I really don’t like being kept in the dark!" Her fists clenched, and she took a step back. "If you won't tell me, I'll walk."

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Giona quickly stepped forward, her voice urgent and filled with conviction. "Wait, Master. The King... he is someone from your time."

Kira's eyes widened, a spark of hope igniting within her. "Someone from my time?" she echoed. "Are you sure?"

Giona nodded solemnly. "Yes, Master. He has waited a long time to see you, and he might have the answers you seek about your friend."

She studied Giona's earnest expression for a moment before nodding slowly. "Alright," she said. "I'll meet your King. But if this is some kind of trick..."

"It is not, Master," Horm interjected. "We swear it."

Kira took a deep breath, her determination solidifying. "Then let's go. The sooner I meet this King, the sooner I can get some answers."

The strangers bowed slightly in acknowledgment and continued to lead her through the vibrant forest. The oversized animals scurried around them, and the dense greenery seemed almost alive with energy and life.

As they walked, Kira's thoughts were a whirlwind. If the King was indeed someone from her time, he might hold the key to unlocking the mysteries of the past and, by a slim chance, maybe, the fate of Vicky. The path ahead was still uncertain, but for the first time since awakening, she felt a glimmer of hope.

"Tell me more about this King," she asked, breaking the silence. "Who is he, really?"

Khazel exchanged a look with Giona and Horm before replying, "He is a figure of great wisdom and power, a benevolent ruler, Master. He has guided our people through many trials and never once gave up on us."

Hearing that made her heart calmer; the King might be a kind man after all. Just as Kira was about to question more, the sound of rushing water reached her ears. She halted her inquiries, quickening her pace towards the river.

The sight of the sparkling water made her pause. She turned to the strangers. "Can you keep watch?" she asked.

They nodded in unison, turning their backs to grant her privacy. Kira began to undress, slipping into the cool, clear water. It felt incredibly refreshing, a stark contrast to the grimy confines of the bunker. The river was clean, free from any pollution, a pristine oasis.

She submerged herself, scrubbing away the dirt and blood. As she emerged, the sunlight caught her wet skin, making it glow with an almost ethereal beauty. For the first time since awakening, she felt truly alive.

Kira finished her bath by leaping gracefully out of the water. She dried herself quickly, eager to don the elegant dress Giona had brought. The fabric was soft against her clean skin, and the dress fit her perfectly, accentuating her athletic form.

As she admired the transformation, Giona approached, carrying an array of golden accessories and opulent jewelry. "Allow me, Master," Giona said, her voice gentle.

Kira nodded, and Giona began to adorn her with golden bracelets, armlets, and intricate jewelry that wrapped around neck and earrings that rested beautifully on her ears. Each piece was exquisitely crafted, adding to her regal appearance. Giona then styled Kira’s hair, weaving golden ornaments into the dark strands.

When Giona stepped back, Kira looked at her reflection in the water. The transformation was breathtaking. She looked like a queen, ready to rule with grace and elegance.

Khazel and Horm turned back around, their eyes widening in awe. "You look magnificent, Master," Khazel said, his voice filled with admiration.

Kira smiled, a newfound confidence radiating from her. "Thank you," she replied. "I feel... different. Stronger."

Giona nodded. "You are our Savior, Master. Your strength and beauty are symbols of hope for our people."

Kira took a deep breath, her resolve solidifying. "Then let's meet this King”.

An hour into their journey, the dense foliage of the jungle finally gave way to the peak of a small mountain. From there, Kira looked down and saw the ruins of what was once ZeroCity. The destroyed buildings were overrun by lush vegetation and towering trees. Giant animals roamed freely, claiming the remnants of the city as their own.

Khazel, noticing her fixed gaze, asked, "What was the city like in your time, Master?"

Kira sighed, a wave of nostalgia washing over her. "It was a city of dreams and lights," she replied. "It was full of life and innovation, always buzzing with energy."

Giona nodded solemnly. "Now, it is forbidden to enter. The animals that rule there are dangerous. It is not safe for anyone to venture inside."

Kira tore her gaze away from the ruins and looked to her right. There, nestled in what used to be a suburban neighborhood, stood the kingdom. Tall concrete walls surrounded it, and within those walls were houses and buildings that displayed a harmonious blend of medieval and modern architecture. At the center, a magnificent palace made of concrete and metal stood tall, its presence commanding and elegant.

"Wow," Kira whispered, marveling at the sight. "It's... beautiful."

"It is our home," Horm said with pride. "And it awaits you, Master."

The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the landscape. The strangers sensed the urgency in the air and urged her to continue. "We must hurry, Master," Khazel said. "Night is approaching, and we need to reach the kingdom before dark."

Kira nodded, tearing her eyes away from the breathtaking view. "Alright, let's go."

They began their descent, moving quickly but carefully. As they drew closer to the kingdom, Kira couldn't help but feel a mix of anxiety and anticipation. The city she once knew was gone, replaced by this new world. But within this kingdom, there was a promise of answers—answers about everything she wanted to uncover.