The Larking Forest was known as a place of mischief, where fae played nasty tricks on those who entered, and the trees would move and change pathways to confuse travelings. Creatures here did not fear outsiders. Instead, they welcomed the new victims of their fun and games. At least, that’s what the stories say.

Deep in the center of the forest, the Rosewood Kingdom resided, obscured from mortal eyes and their touch. With homes built within the very branches of the tallest evergreens, they were the true protectors of Larking Forest, and of what had been forgotten within. Eons ago, when the world of man was young, the first Rosewood ancestor was sent by the Sotoris. A member of this family has always ruled over Larking Forest, and that would not end in this generation, for the queen bore two sons. One who would be crowned king, and one whose life would revolve around the other.

Gail had never complained about the straw he had drawn in life. He knew his older brother, Orion, was better suited for the crown. As Captain of the Royal Guard, Gail had a touch more freedom, and he didn’t have to concern himself with advisor meetings or other royal nonsense. Despite his duties, he longed for adventure elsewhere, to leave behind this forest of old, and step into the world of man. He didn’t wish to die among the trees he was born under, and he knew his death was coming sooner rather than later.

At night when the forest fell into slumber, he would climb as high as he could, until he could no longer see the forest floor. He would go up until he broke through and could gaze up at the stars above the canopies of leaves. He would imagine himself walking up there, among the pure starlight, truly and utterly free.

The stranger was brought before them on an evening before the chill of autumn fell. A human had never ventured this deep into the forest before. Queen Vanya sat on the throne, and next to her was Orion. Gail explained the situation to his mother and brother, while one of his men held the mortal in irons. They were a spirited one, and judging by their worn boots and travel bag, they were an adventurer.

The verdict was to keep them in a cell for the night, and they would decide the human’s fate come daybreak. Gail personally escorted the intruder. He had tried to resist speaking to the human, after all, he was the Captain of the Guards. He was meant to be mysterious, scary, intimidating-

“You’re an adventurer, yes?” He asked as he spun around from leaving, his eyes alight with curiosity. “Where do you come from? Is it far from here?”