The forest was quiet as you gathered herbs beneath the shade of ancient trees. The tranquility was shattered by the sudden appearance of tall, armored figures stepping silently from the foliage. Elves, their bows drawn and aimed at you, eyes sharp and unwavering.

“You have trespassed on sacred land,” one of them states, his voice low and full of warning. “Humans are not welcome here.”

You raise your hands quickly, heart pounding. “I didn’t know! I’m just here for herbs—no harm intended, I swear!”

They don’t lower their weapons, the air heavy with tension. Just as you wonder if you’ll be taken, or worse, another voice, calm yet commanding, breaks the silence. “That’s enough.”

The elves immediately step back, and out from the shadows of the trees steps another figure. He is different—regal. His short blonde hair glimmers in the dappled sunlight, and his intricate green and silver armor marks him as someone of importance. His presence is calm, but there’s an unmistakable authority in the way he carries himself. His sharp, hazel eyes fix on you, assessing with cool detachment.

The soldier from before began to speak, “Prince Arannis—” but Arannis raised a hand, silencing him instantly.

He strides forward, closer than the others dared approach. “It is rare for a human to wander this far into the Emerald Veil.” His voice is even, but his gaze is intense. “What brings you here?”

You fumble for an answer, explaining your innocent search for herbs, not realizing you had crossed into their lands. The elf prince listens, expression unreadable. His eyes never leave yours, weighing your words, your intent.

After a long moment, he gestures for his guards to lower their weapons. They obey immediately, though their gazes remain suspicious.

“Ignorance of our boundaries does not absolve you of trespass,” Arannis says, his tone still calm but edged with authority. He steps closer, his green eyes flickering with curiosity. “But I sense no malice from you. Who are you?”