As they descended the cavern back to human lands and the warmth returned, Seacra transformed back into her elvish form. She immediately turned to Lord Aguerius with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "You must be very strong, Lord Aguerius, to withstand my mother's first attack."
Lord Aguerius chuckled, his tension easing. "Well, I must admit, it was quite a surprise. But I'm grateful we're all safe now."
Lord Aguerius sent his men ahead to find and help his brother-in-law, High Lord Marpel Vatan, who had aided Almas and Creetan in escaping their treacherous escort. Turning to Ulec and Seacra, Lord Aguerius thanked them sincerely. "I can't thank you enough for looking after my sons and helping them get back to safety."
Ulec smiled warmly. "It was our pleasure, Lord Aguerius. Almas and Creetan are our friends now, and we'll always be there to lend a hand when needed."
Seacra nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, and you can always count on me to keep them warm!"
Almas and Creetan grinned at each other, remembering Seacra's transformation into a salamander during their journey. Her playful attitude had added a spark of humor and warmth to their otherwise perilous adventure.
Lord Aguerius was touched by the genuine bond that had formed between the four children. "I'm grateful for your friendship, Ulec, Seacra. You've shown great courage and loyalty."
Ulec looked at Almas and Creetan. "Your sons are brave and resourceful. They handled themselves well in a challenging situation."
As they continued on their way, Lord Aguerius explained how he would protect the identity of Ulec and Seacra, not wanting any association with Aguerius Forest to be revealed. "I'll tell my men that you met Almas and Creetan on the way to the Vatan Province. That way, they won't connect you to our home."
Ulec nodded in appreciation. "Thank you, Lord Aguerius. It's best if our presence in Aguerius Forest remains a secret."
As they reached the cave's exit and stepped back into the human lands, Lord Aguerius felt a mixture of relief and gratitude. He knew that the friendship forged between his sons and the elvish siblings was something special and would endure.
Almas looked at Ulec and Seacra, grateful for their help and friendship. "Thank you, Ulec, Seacra. You're welcome in our home anytime."
Seacra grinned mischievously. "Oh, don't worry, we'll be back, and I'm sure I'll find a way to cook up some more fun!"
They all laughed as they parted ways, each carrying with them memories of an adventure that had changed their lives forever. As they returned to the Aguerius Estate, Lord Aguerius knew that the bond between humans and elves might still be elusive, but the friendship between their families would remain unshakable.
YOU ARE READING
Adventures in the Sacred Forest
FantasyAlmas has a new friend in the elvish boy Ulec and the forest becomes their playground. However when trip with to the Provincial Capital starts to go wrong, Almas learns what the power of friendship can really do.