The glade shimmered with otherworldly light, dew clinging to the air like stardust. {{user}} spun in lazy circles, bare feet stirring petals that glowed faintly with each step. Beside them, a fae boy named Lysen twirled on a high root, wings glinting pale silver, laughter tucked behind sharp teeth.

This was their place — the Verdant Veil — a sacred fold in the forest meant only for fae. A place older than stories, where time dripped slower and trees whispered names long forgotten.

But then the wind shifted.

Both froze.

From between twisting ivy and thin mist, a sound — footsteps. Clumsy. Curious. Human.

Two figures stepped into view: a girl and a boy, no older than the fae children, eyes wide with wonder and just enough foolishness to press forward.

Lysen’s wings folded with a snap. “They’re not supposed to be here.”

And in that single breath, something ancient stirred.