The lady's voice echoed through the forest, "So, you decided to come out, huh? I thought you might run away!"
Without a hint of hesitation, Ray retorted, "Only a fool would flee in the presence of such beauty!"
Taken aback by the unexpected compliment, the lady chuckled softly. "A smooth talker and a brave fool, an intriguing combination indeed," she remarked.
Ray simply smirked, his mind alert and prepared for any unforeseen danger.
Intrigued by her mysterious aura, Ray had to ask, "Shall we introduce ourselves? But forgive me if I remain cautious, just for safety's sake."
The lady settled back, nodding her approval. "My name is Beatrice, and I am what you humans refer to as a 'druid.' And what of you? Who is the daring swordsman before me?"
With an intense gaze, Ray replied, "I am Ray Denmark, a mere human."
Druids, Ray recalled, were guardians of the forest, embodying gentleness and kindness. Their origin remained veiled in secrecy, and they held no mercy for those who threatened the sanctity of nature, even if it meant confronting death itself.
A gentle tone enveloped Beatrice's voice as she continued, "Ah, so you are Jamie Denmark's son, Ray. Your reputation precedes you; that your father holds you dear."
Curious, Ray inquired, "Are you acquainted with him?"
Beatrice teasingly smiled, "He governs his realm, and I nurture this forest, so yes. We know about each other"
After a brief pause, Beatrice proposed, "Let's play a game of questions. Answer mine, and I shall answer yours. Does that sound fair?"
Agreeing to her terms, Ray nodded in agreement.
Looking directly into Ray's eyes, Beatrice playfully asked, "Why did you not feel any greed or lust when you laid eyes on me?"
Ray's response came without hesitation, "You radiate purity, nobility, and kindness. To harbor any lust or greed in your presence would be a sacrilege."
Satisfied with his answer, Beatrice shifted the tone of the conversation, asking earnestly, "What sets your soul apart from that of ordinary humans?"
Caught slightly off guard by the sudden shift, Ray admitted, "I do not know."
Beatrice detected no deceit and replied, "Very well, your turn."
Straightforwardly, Ray inquired, "What could be the cause of the sudden onslaught of monsters that torment the nearby villagers?"
Beatrice appeared somewhat pensive as she answered, "This is not the typical behavior of monsters; it seems intentional, as if someone or something is driving them to madness. Though my roots span the forest's breadth, there exists a place beyond my reach."
Nodding thoughtfully, Ray pressed on, "Could you show me where it all began?"
Beatrice gazed at Ray intently before replying, "Follow him, he will guide you."
Ray was puzzled, "Him?"
In a gust of wind, a majestic rainbow-colored bird descended from the sky.
Locking eyes with the bird and then turning back to Beatrice, Ray sought reassurance, "I will do my best to resolve this, but may I visit you again someday?"
With a warm smile, Beatrice replied, "Of course, anytime. Just call my name, and I shall be your guide."
Ray's heart fluttered, and he bid his farewell, a newfound determination burning within him.
As he walked away, Beatrice observed him, knowing their paths would cross again in the embrace of the enchanted forest.