525 MEETING THE ELVEN KING
There was a gigantic tree in the middle of the Imperial Village. This was where the Elven King resided with his family. The tree was said to be over a thousand years old and its branches reached high into the sky, casting a shadow over the entire village. The Elven King was known for his wisdom and fair rule, the strongest elf alive. Many sought his counsel on matters of great importance. The tree itself was considered sacred by the elves, and it was believed to possess magical powers that could bless the good souls. The villagers often gathered around the tree to celebrate festivals and hold important ceremonies. The Elven King's family lived in a grand palace that was built from the trunk of the tree, with rooms that stretched up towards the canopy above.
The entrance of the majestic palace started with giant doors. An ancient language was written on the door with a unique design.
The soldiers saw Veronica coming with Urulas, their second prince. They bowed to show respect and then opened the door for them.
As they swung open, Urulas and Veronica entered the palace.
Veronica marveled at the intricate carvings on the walls and ceilings, which depicted scenes from ancient elven mythology. Despite its grandeur, however, there was an air of peace and tranquility about the Imperial Palace that made it feel like a haven from the outside world. It was as if time had stood still here, in this magical world.
The palace itself was a marvel of architecture, with soaring pillars and intricate mosaics adorning every surface. Inside, the halls were lined with priceless works of art and ancient artifacts, each one imbued with the rich history of the elven people. The Imperial Family resided in the heart of the palace, surrounded by opulent furnishings and luxurious amenities. But despite their wealth and power, they remained humble and dedicated to serving their people.
When they entered the throne room, Veronica spotted the Elven Lords lined up in front of her and bowed deeply. She looked ahead and saw the Elven King sitting on the throne, patiently waiting for her.
Veronica stared at him in a daze. He could be the father of Urulas but he looked young. He was wearing a long silver top that touched his ankle. His muscles were invisible but anyone could guess that he was hiding a strong body beneath his silver top. His white hair fell on his shoulders. A wooden crown was fixed on the top of his head. His blue eyes sparkled with knowledge. His pale skin, sharp jaw, slender neck, curved collarbone – everything made him look attractive.
His appearance looked simple but divine and glamorous at the same time.
"Your Majesty, the Wisest King of Elven Realm, we, the second prince of Imperial Village and the carrier of the blood of the Great Dragon greet you."
Urulas announced and bowed deeply while Veronica slightly lowered her head.
"Rise," The Elven King said.
Veronica and Urulas straightened their backs. Her eyes were fixed on the wisest elf.
The Elven King continued, "The descendent of the Great Dragon, I, Erestor Culnámo, the wisest ruler of the Woodland, welcome you."
His blue eyes were shining and dominating, trying to pressure Veronica with his presence and knowledge. His gaze was unbearable. It shook Veronica's heart. However, she stubbornly stared at him, didn't want to lower her gaze and admit defeat.
She replied, "Thank you, Your Majesty. It is an honor to be in your presence."
The Elven King said in return, "The honor is all mine, the descendent of the Great Dragon. We have been waiting for a millennium and the time has come. We are delighted to have you in our holy land. I hope you feel at home in our land."
Veronica was being formal in front of him unlike she was with others. She had a feeling that she shouldn't act humble in his presence. She needed to show her stance and let him know that she couldn't be easily manipulated.
She said, "Your Majesty knows me well even though it's the first time we have met. No wonder everyone admires you for being the wisest. Yes, this place feels like a home to me. If I ever get tired of my home, I will surely come and stay here."
The corners of King Erestor Culnámo's lips raised ever so slightly because of her flattery.
He stated, "I'm delighted to hear that. I've heard from my son that you have created a family in the Human Realm."
"That is correct, Your Majesty."
"I'm surprised. With everything going on around you, when did you have time to meet a man."
"He is the one who has supported and protected me the most when I was in danger."
"Is this the reason you have turned into a dragon?"
"…"
Veronica stayed quiet to hear what he had to say.
"By all means, I'm grateful that you have turned into a dragon and showed your authority and power. All I want to know is that you are safe and sound being under the magicians."
"You have misunderstood, Your Majesty."
"Please, elaborate," the Elven King proposed.
"I'm not trying to show my authority or power, nor am I under the magicians. I turned into a dragon to protect myself and the people I care about. "I'm living in the Magic Tower because I simply want to. I don't need anyone's protection. No one is forcing me to do what I want."
Veronica cleared the misunderstanding he had about her. She didn't wish for anyone to see her as a weak blessed child who was here to get protection. She wanted to show that she was powerful enough to do her duty as a human, not a blessed child.
King Erestor Culnámo calmly stared at her when she spoke.
Afterward, he said, "A person who doesn't need protection and yet ready to protect others is a warrior in our holy land. What you have accomplished so far has made us proud. "This land has been your home since the day you were born. It will be your home even after you die. You are welcome to come here anytime you want without anyone's permission. We treat you like a god and I hope you grant us our wishes like a god."
Veronica asked, "…What wishes, Your Majesty?"
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