Chapter 62: The Fortress of Elunezor

Sylena her hair a blend of radiant white and dark gray flowing in the wind, wore a serene smile as she hummed an ancient elven melody.

The bright sun illuminated the road ahead of her as she left the majestic Nymenor Forest.

Riding her imposing steed Nildim, she advanced with firm steps leading her group across vast green plains stretching toward the horizon.

Behind her her loyal goblin companions, Geolt and Geilor followed on wolves, respecting the sacred calm of the moment.

Only the sound of Nildim's hooves and Sylena's gentle humming broke the tranquility of the surroundings.

The peaceful moment was interrupted by a muffled cough from Geolt.

 "Princess, forgive me for interrupting your radiant song... but the fortress of Elunezor is in sight."

Sylena opened her eyes and, without losing her smile, turned slightly.

 "Thank you, Geolt. We're almost there. Let's move on."

The Majesty of the Fortress of Elunezor

As they moved closer, an imposing vision emerged on the horizon.

The fortress of Elunezor a masterpiece of ingenuity stood proudly.

Its walls impressively thick and seemingly invincible, and its towering ramparts adorned with glowing runes, reflected the sun's rays brilliantly.

This immense bastion, built through the combined expertise of elves and dwarves during the founding of the Grand Confederation of Azulferia, was a shining example of the alliance between these diverse races.

For nearly nine centuries Elunezor had been an unbreachable wall, repelling invasions and defending Azulferia against assaults from neighboring realms.

Since its founding, no nation had managed to penetrate its defenses.

When the group reached the fortress's massive gates, reinforced with metal and stone. Sylena pulled out a brown wooden compass finely engraved with ancient runes.

She held it up toward the guards stationed on the battlements.

Recognizing the royal insignia, the goblin guards in gleaming armor ordered the gates constructed of reinforced concrete and iron to be opened.

The massive doors creaked open slowly, revealing the bustling interior of the fortress.

At first glance, elven soldiers in armor accompanied by goblin warriors wielding iron spears came into view.

Behind them, a silhouette advanced toward the group.

An elf of tall stature clad in gray armor and a green cloak lightly billowing in the wind, approached.

A large sword hung on his back, and his face bore a sly smile.

 "Well little sister, you came back empty-handed, aren't you?" he teased with a mocking air.

Sylena gracefully dismounted Nildim, a mysterious smile on her lips.

She retrieved a yellow sack from her saddle and placed it before him with pride.

 "Look inside big brother Lanny, and tell me what you think."

Intrigued Lanny opened the sack.

Inside was the body of a little creature wolpertinger known for its elusiveness.

 His eyes widened slightly before glancing at the goblins.

"Geolt, Geilor, I see you've done a fine job. But..." he said with a grin"you should stop pretending it was Sylena's doing."

Sylena offended, puffed out her cheeks slightly and stood before him with her hands on her hips.

 "B-Big brother!"

Lanny raised his hands in surrender and burst out laughing before ruffling her hair gently.

"Hahaha i'm kidding, i'm kidding. It's impressive, Syl but you know I am worry about you.

The hunt is an activity typically reserved for male elven warriors in our cultur while women can fight, young elf girls your age are usually more interested in marriage."

Sylena rolled her eyes and replied with a laugh:

 "I'm only 17, Lanny. I've got plenty of time to think about marriage... maybe in 100 years."

Lanny shook his head, an amused smile on his face.

 "Still as stubborn as ever."

Changing the subject, Sylena asked:

 "Big brother, do you know where big sisterThaloria is?"

Lanny furrowed his brows slightly and placed a hand on his chin, thoughtful.

 "Hmmp... If I remember correctly, she was supposed to have a meeting with the members of the Council of Sages.

They're probably still debating in the council chamber at Elsihore Castle."

Sylena nodded eagerly.

Before Lanny could add anything, she turned and darted off toward the bustling streets.

 "Geolt, Geilor, I'll meet you later!" she shouted before dashing away.

Lanny, surprised by her sudden departure, raised a hand to stop her.

"W-Wait, Sylena!" But his younger sister was already out of reach running far away.

He could only see her retreating figure, leaving him behind with her goblin companions.

He lowered his hand, sighed softly then shook his head with a proud smile, murmuring:

 "Still as impulsive as ever, little Syl."

Within the Confederation, activity was constant.

Goblin and elven soldiers trained side by side, dwarven craftsmen perfected weapons and armor, and emissaries from various races crossed paths in the corridors.

Sylena running through the bustling streets of the capital, was determined to find her sister Thaloria.

What she didn't know yet was that in a few days, this nation would face a turning point one that would touch her comrades, her family, and the Grand Confederation of Azulferia.