From a distance, the village looked unremarkable, its silhouette blending with the dense forest surrounding it. But as the magical carriage sailed closer, Emery sensed an unusually rich concentration of spirit energy emanating from the area.
The carriage came to a halt at a small dock by the edge of the village. A graceful figure hovered toward them before Emery or anyone else could disembark. It was a member of the fairy race—a female, her form slender and slightly smaller than an average human. Her delicate, translucent wings shimmered faintly under the morning sunlight as she smiled warmly.
"Welcome to the Whispering Willows," she said, her voice as melodious as a song.
As the fairy spoke, Emery noted her demeanor. Like much of the information he had read, most fairies were known to be hospitable, and her greeting seemed to confirm that reputation.
