The royal guard rode out of the heart of the Elven realms and thundered through the darkness, their own eternal selves creating a soft, white, ethereal light as they glided along. Niamh followed Lorcan closely, for although she could see well, the queen had no idea where they were headed. The King would often look back to make sure she was near.

Through the woods of twisted trees and gently sloping glades, the King and Queen of the Elves rode with purpose. Fergal came to perch on ...