The gentle rustling of the leaves greeted Silvy as she and Kyle approached the outskirts of the elf forest.
Sunlight streamed through the canopy, illuminating the dew-slicked ground in golden hues. The soft, pulsing hum of life magic permeated the air—a sound and feeling Silvy had missed deeply.
As they stepped into the glade, Silvy turned to Kyle.
"Before we return, would it be alright if we stopped by the settlement?"
Kyle glanced sideways.
"Is there something you need?"
"I want to check on the juvenile elf tree. To make sure it's growing properly… and that my absence didn't affect it."
Silvy said.
Kyle gave a small nod.
"Alright. Let's go."
The walk into the heart of the forest was quiet. The village, once full of movement and laughter, now stood mostly abandoned—its residents having joined the larger war effort under Kyle's leadership. Empty homes, left respectfully intact, stood in silence, cradled by roots and vines.
