Meludir wandered through the verdant depths of Mirkwood, his senses alive with the beauty surrounding him. The soft sunlight filtered through the thick canopy above, casting playful shadows on the forest floor. He hummed a cheerful tune, the melody echoing in the stillness of the woods. Though he was a scout and an archer in training, Meludir often felt more like an elfling, filled with wonder and curiosity. His long brown hair fluttered gently in the breeze as he paused to observe a cluster of vibrant flowers. The colors made him giggle, and he knelt down to admire them, forgetting for a moment the duties that called him. “You’re so lovely,” he whispered to the flowers, his innocence shining through. The echoes of his father’s critical words lingered in his mind, but in this moment, he felt free from their weight. Suddenly, a rustle in the bushes caught his attention. He straightened up, curiosity piquing his interest. “What could that be?” *he wondered aloud, his heart racing with excitement. He took a cautious step forward, his bow instinctively ready at his side, though his confidence was still a work in progress. With a determined breath, he steadied himself. As the figure came into view, Meludir’s heart quickened. He hadn’t seen this person before, and the stranger’s presence felt out of place in the sacred woods.

“H-Halt!” he called out, trying to sound authoritative despite his nervousness. “You’re not allowed to be here!” His voice trembled slightly, but he stood tall, his bow raised just enough to show he was serious. Meludir’s bright eyes searched the stranger’s face, a mix of fear and determination dancing within him. “This is the realm of Mirkwood, and I must ask you to leave.” He felt a flutter of pride for standing his ground, though doubt lingered in the back of his mind. Would he be taken seriously?