“Very well.” He surveyed the dome. “Shall we enter together?” He held out his hand, and I took it. Together, we stepped through the barrier.
I felt as if I were entering through a portal. Though the side effects of dizziness and disorientation weren’t present, the spots of light dancing in my vision were similar. Colorful baubles of pink and blue shimmered in and out of appearance until Kull and I crossed to the other side.
We stepped into a place that could only be described as otherworldly.
“I’ve seen these trees before,” I said to Kull.
“Yes, they’re cilla moon trees. Just like the one growing behind Grandamere’s cottage.”
“I’ve never seen so many in one place.”
Trees that looked as if they’d been crafted of glass soared above us. Magic coursed through their trunks and into their limbs, making the trees appear to glow with a soft blue light. Glass and timber bridges connected one tree to another.
Leaves of varying shades of purple, blue, and green fluttered from the tree’s massive limbs. As I studied the trees, structures resembling large tree houses built seamlessly into the branches became visible, although the craftsmanship of the homes made them blend in so well they were nearly camouflaged.
The sounds of running water echoed, and I spied a river running through the trees not far away. Colorful vegetation and flowers sprouted from the ground around the trees’ bases, scenting the air with the fresh fragrances similar to pine and spruce.
“My goodness.” I gasped. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a place more beautiful.”
“Beautiful, yes, but is it dangerous?”
“Good question. I have no idea who lives here. Shall we find out?”
“Yes, but we should proceed with caution. I’m down to one lousy sword, you know.”
“Yes, you’ve mentioned it.”
Kull and I walked toward the trees and found a wooden footbridge crossing the many streams weaving below the trees. My mouth gaped as I stared overhead. The tree branches made a quiet tinkling sound as they moved in a gentle breeze, their limbs laden with jewel-like fruit. Bauble lights also hung from the branches, glowing in tranquil tones of amber and soft blue, casting light down on the water running under our feet.
Beneath the water’s surface, creatures swam. I even spotted a melimar—a small mermaid creature with corn silk hair—gliding gracefully through the stream. Our footfalls thumped over the wooden planks as we walked. The fresh scent of tree sap filled the air, and a gentle breeze carried magic in its wake.
Ahead, several people emerged on the bridge, blocking our path. Kull’s hand tightened around mine. We stopped as we approached them.
One man stood in front of the others. He was an elf dressed in a simple white robe with silver trim. A braided leather rope encircled his head, and his brunette hair was tied back in a low ponytail. I also noticed his magic, a powerful force I wasn’t sure I wanted to challenge.
The man raised his hand in a peaceful gesture. “I am called Eyrin of the city of Celestara. Welcome, strangers, to our home.”
“Your home?” I asked. “Where exactly are we?” It occurred to me then that I wasn’t even sure which kingdom we’d arrived in.
“This is the home of Wendolun, Lord of the Outer Province.”
“Wendolun,” I said. “I know that name.” I turned to Kull. “He helped us defeat the bloodthorn, didn’t he?”
“Yes, he and his men helped us. He was also helping me construct my library, but he said he was from Delestria.”
“That is true,” Eyrin answered. “He is indeed the governor of Delestria, although he was born here and still spends some of his time here. Are you here to visit him?”
“He’s here now?” I asked.
Eyrin nodded.
“We’re not here to meet with Wendolun, although we appreciate the offer. We’re searching for the light-rails. Are they nearby?” Kull asked.
Eyrin frowned. “No. I am afraid we are in a remote location.”
The elves standing behind Eyrin shifted, and I noted that two of them had bows slung over their shoulders.
“Tell me, how is it you have found our village?” Eyrin asked.
“It wasn’t intentional,” I answered. “We opened a portal from Earth Kingdom, and it brought us here.”
He raised an eyebrow. “From Earth Kingdom?”
I nodded.
“You are an Earthlander?”
“Yes, half.”
“Half?”
“Half-elven. It’s complicated.”
He cocked his head. “Are you the sky king’s ward?”
I cleared my throat. “I am. I suppose word travels fast in Faythander.”
“Indeed,” he answered. “Tell me, what were you doing in Earth Kingdom?”
“It’s a long story, but we’ve been searching for something.”
“I see.” He pondered us a moment before turning to the elves standing behind him. Speaking softly, he said they were no longer needed. The elves dispersed, and Eyrin turned back toward us.
“It is fortunate you have arrived here,” he said quietly. “We are friends, although you may not be aware, but Wendolun has been secretly aiding the elves who oppose the queen for some time. His allegiance is to the sky king. As the sky king’s ward, you are granted sanctuary in our city. You may stay here as long as you wish.”
“Thank you, but unfortunately, we can’t stay long. It’s important we find the light-rails and leave as soon as possible,” I answered.
“I understand,” Eyrin said, tucking his hands into the sleeves of his robes. “I would be more than willing to discuss your traveling needs. However, I am afraid the remoteness of our location makes traveling difficult, and I am tardy for a pressing engagement. Join me for the evening meal and we shall discuss your journey then.”
“Is there any way we can discuss it now?” I asked. “Perhaps there is someone else we can speak with?”
“No, I am afraid now is not a good time. Anyone else you could speak with will also be dining at this hour. Join me, and I shall make sure your needs are met.”
Kull and I followed Eyrin along the footbridge until we reached a staircase. The steps were constructed completely of glass and the banister was made of
