24. In the Twilight

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Elizabeth wandered along the winding paths of Iorlainn, surrounded by its stunning beauty. The labyrinthine trails, dense groves, and vibrant gardens were nothing short of mesmerising. But she walked with caution, fearing to lose her way in this intricate maze. Still, the extraordinary flora and fauna fascinated her, making it impossible to resist their appeal.

An impressive variety of flowers adorned the verdant landscape. Some were familiar to Elizabeth, while others were unlike any she had ever seen. A few emitted a gentle glow, and others appeared delicate, resembling the finest glass.

As twilight approached, the scene became even more magical. Fireflies of various colours filled the air, flickering like tiny stars in the gathering darkness. Spellbound by the captivating sight, Elizabeth followed one of these insects glowing with a bluish hue. It led her further into the secret parts of Iorlainn.

The firefly went up and down, darting so quickly that Elizabeth almost ran to keep up, then floating as if waiting for her

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The firefly went up and down, darting so quickly that Elizabeth almost ran to keep up, then floating as if waiting for her. She tried to capture it in her palm, but the tiny creature only grazed her skin before flying off again.

In front of a tree, the firefly paused, prompting Elizabeth to approach. Delicate branches formed curtains around the tree trunk as they fell to the ground. The insect easily passed through them, and Elizabeth followed, drawing the branches away with her hand. There, she stopped at an unexpected scene: a young fairy couple holding each other in a tender embrace, their lips touching in a sweet kiss.

Embarrassed by her unintentional intrusion, Elizabeth quickly apologised and retreated. She rushed off, leaving behind the gentle echo of fairies' laughter, a harmonious mix of male and female voices.

Everything around her was a celebration of joy and love. Outside Iorlainn, her days, especially nights, had been fraught with danger, making safety her primary concern. Now, however, she craved something more. Memories of her first kiss with Dan on the secluded path in the park, and the sensations it evoked, came flooding back.

They used to have passionate, lingering exchanges, their faces flushed with desire, their eyes glowing with longing. The memory, poignant and vivid, made her heart ache for those moments they had shared in the past.

As she looked at the sky, painted in the soft pink hues of sunset, a gentle breeze caressed her face, carrying with it something she couldn't quite discern. An inexplicable longing settled in her heart. She had so much love to give, but it constantly shattered against Dan's cold indifference and bitter sarcasm. It was as if he had become a stranger to her, or perhaps she had simply failed to see his true nature from the start.

But still, she desperately wanted to love and be loved. Her thoughts shifted to William, and a sigh escaped her lips. She recalled the way he had looked at her during the game of hide-and-seek, her heart fluttering once more—a strange sensation. There, by the pond, his eyes had held an unmistakable interest. Just as quickly, she dismissed the thought, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

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