Chapter 37: Chapter 37 - An old Elf

Despite their initial plans to stay hidden in the inn, Spark, Zhao Shi, and Yuna found themselves wandering through the enchanting streets of Feyhaven alongside Princess Ling. She had insisted they should not leave such a legendary place without experiencing its wonders. Reluctantly, Spark agreed, and they set off, accompanied by the silent, masked man who shadowed them discreetly.

As they wandered through the city, Spark couldn't help but tease Princess Ling, "Does this make it a date?"

"Date?" Princess Ling looked at him, puzzled. "Is that some kind of outing?"

"Yeah, something like that..." Spark chuckled, realizing she might not be familiar with such concepts. His laughter was cut short when he noticed Yuna struggling to suppress her giggles. He shot her a playful glare, and the group continued in relative silence, each taking in the sights around them.

The city of Feyhaven was unlike anything they had ever seen. The streets were paved with smooth, interlocking stones, bordered by lush greenery that seemed to pulse with life. The architecture was a harmonious blend of nature and design, with buildings grown rather than built, their forms flowing organically from the forest itself.

Their first stop was at the ancient shrines and temples scattered throughout the city. These sacred places were dedicated to various deities and spirits of nature, revered by the elves. The temples were serene, with intricate carvings and statues that seemed to tell stories of old. Each shrine was surrounded by a tranquil garden, filled with exotic plants and flowers that added a riot of color to the otherwise green landscape.

Princess Ling moved through these spaces with a quiet reverence, taking in the details and pausing to offer silent prayers. Spark, on the other hand, strolled with a casual air, his hands in his pockets and a mildly bored expression on his face. Zhao Shi and Yuna followed, intrigued by the spiritual atmosphere but keeping their curiosity in check.

Next, they ventured into the bustling markets of Feyhaven. Unlike typical human markets filled with noise and chaos, the elven market was a place of calm order. Stalls were neatly arranged, displaying a dazzling array of goods. There were vibrant fabrics, intricately crafted jewelry, and an assortment of potions and herbs, each with labels detailing their uses. The food stalls offered a variety of elven delicacies, from exotic fruits to beautifully prepared dishes that seemed almost too perfect to eat.

The group couldn't help but be drawn to a stall selling shimmering fabrics. Princess Ling examined a length of silken cloth, her eyes wide with appreciation.

"The craftsmanship here is unparalleled," she said, running her fingers over the material. "It's like nothing I've seen before."

After the markets, they made their way to one of the city's famous viewing platforms. Shaped like a giant leaf, the platform floated gracefully upward, carrying them to the treetops. As they ascended, the city spread out below them, a breathtaking mosaic of greenery and elegant structures. The canopy above was a sea of emerald, interspersed with the glowing lights of elven dwellings.

From their vantage point atop the tree, the group had a panoramic view of Feyhaven. The city was a testament to the elves' ability to live in harmony with nature, their buildings seamlessly integrated into the forest around them. It was a sight that left them in awe, even Spark, despite his usual nonchalance.

"As expected, the elven race is advanced compared to all the other races," Princess Ling commented, her voice filled with admiration. "They are all disciplined."

It was often said that the elves were the most advanced civilization on the continent. Their technological and cultural achievements, from intricate weaponry to elegant clothing, were unparalleled. The elves' discipline and societal harmony contrasted sharply with the more tumultuous human societies. Here, there seemed to be little room for the chaos and disorder that often plagued other races.

However, Spark, ever the skeptic, couldn't resist a jab.

"Isn't it just a dictatorial society?" Spark mockingly replied, his tone laced with sarcasm.

Princess Ling turned to him, her expression thoughtful.

"You see it as dictatorial because of their order and discipline," she said. "But to the elves, it is a way of life that ensures harmony and progress. There is a balance here that we humans often struggle to achieve."

Spark shrugged. "Maybe. But I prefer a bit of chaos. Keeps things interesting."

…

In the afternoon, as they were making their way back to the inn, Spark and Yuna noticed a figure in the distance, moving swiftly in their direction. Even from afar, it was clear that the figure was an elf, hunched over under the weight of a massive pile of wood strapped to his back.

"Quick, hide!" Spark whispered urgently to Yuna. Without a moment's hesitation, the two darted behind a large tree nearby, hoping to avoid the approaching elf's attention.

When they next appeared from behind the tree, they were startled to find the old elf standing right in front of them. His presence was imposing despite his age, and the huge bundle of wood he carried seemed almost effortless for him.

"Young man," the old elf addressed Spark, his eyes sharp and penetrating. "Did you see a gold-haired man with a woman?"

Spark, thinking quickly, pointed to his left. "I think they went that way."

The old elf squinted in the direction Spark indicated, then nodded. "I see."

Without another word, he turned and hurried off in the direction Spark had pointed, moving with surprising speed given his load.

As the old elf disappeared into the distance, Spark let out a sigh of relief. He glanced at Yuna, who appeared equally relieved. But when they turned to face Princess Ling and Zhao Shi, they were met with bewildered stares.

"What just happened?" Princess Ling asked, her eyes widening as she noticed the change in their appearance. Spark, who usually sported gold hair, now had jet-black hair. In contrast, Yuna's black hair had transformed into a striking shade of gold.

"Magic," Spark said with a grin.