The Elven Forest, once a place of shadow and darkness under the rule of the cruel Thaldirur, now shone with light and life. Midoki's victory brought not only freedom to the elves, but also a new breath of hope to the entire nation. The trees in the dead part of the forest, once subdued by dark energy, bloomed again, their branches full of green leaves that glowed in the soft sunlight that filtered through the forest canopy. The birds, which had previously fled the place, now returned to sing their songs of joy and freedom.
Midoki, still feeling the weight of the recent battle, stood beside Durin and Elyra. Around them, the elves gathered in a circle, their eyes filled with gratitude and respect. They knew that they owed their freedom to the courage and strength of the warriors who stood against Thaldirur.
Eldrion, the young elf who had revealed the sad story of his father, Elyndor, approached Midoki, with a sincere smile on his face. He raised a carved wooden cup and, in a clear and firm voice, declared:
- Eldrion: "Today, we celebrate more than the victory over a tyrant. We celebrate the courage, unity and hope that Midoki and Durin brought back to our land. May the Elven Forest flourish again under the light of the peace we have won together!"
The elves raised their cups, toasting Midoki's name. The echo of the toasts reverberated through the forest, as if the trees themselves were participating in the celebration. Midoki, uncomfortable with so much praise, stepped forward and raised his hand, asking for silence.
- Midoki: "I did not do this alone," he said humbly. "All of you, each one who stood and fought, have a part in this victory. The true power of a kingdom lies in its people. I have only done my part, just as you have done yours."
Those sincere words made the elves feel even more connected to the young warrior. There was an aura of mutual respect that transcended words.
Elyra, who had remained silent until then, took a step forward. Her eyes, now free of Thaldirur's dark influence, shone with a new determination. She approached Midoki, her long silver hair shining under the light of the moon that was beginning to rise in the sky.
- Elyra: "Midoki" She began, her voice soft but firm. - "You saved my life, and freed our people from a tyranny that could have lasted for generations. As a daughter of Elyndor and an heir to the blood of our nation, it is my duty to protect and serve my people. But as I watched you and Durin, I realized that there is a greater mission that I can fight for."
Midoki watched her silently, intrigued by her words. Durin, beside him, crossed his arms, watching the young elf with a watchful eye.
- Elyra: "I would like to join you." Elyra continued, her eyes fixed on Midoki. "I wish to become a member of the Order of the 13 Knights. I know it may seem reckless, but I have skills that could be useful, and a burning desire to protect not only my people, but all those who need help."
Elyra's proposal took Midoki by surprise. He had not expected that the daughter of Elyndor, recently freed from such deep manipulation, would be willing to embark on such a dangerous mission. However, when he looked into her eyes, he saw the same determination he saw in the best warriors, the same flame that burned in his own heart.
- Durin, ever the pragmatist, was the first to speak: "Elyra, your courage is undeniable, and no one can doubt your intentions. But the Order of the 13 Knights is more than a mere alliance. It is a promise to fight to the end, to face unimaginable dangers. Are you willing to take on this responsibility?"
Elyra, without hesitation, nodded. "I am. If I can protect those I love, I will be willing to face any challenge."
Midoki, sensing that this decision might be the right one, extended his hand to Elyra.
- Midoki: "Then, in the name of the Order, I accept you among us, Elyra. Your strength, wisdom, and connection to the Elven Forest will be invaluable to our mission. Welcome."
The young elf held Midoki tightly, kissing him and making Durin jealous.
The elves around her burst into applause and shouts of joy. Elyra, now a member of the Order of the 13 Knights, smiled as she held Midoki's hand. She knew her journey was just beginning, but with her new companions by her side, she was ready to face any challenge that fate would throw her way.
The celebration continued into the night, with music, dancing, and stories being told by the light of the fires. The elves celebrated not only their freedom, but also the new alliance that had been formed that night. Midoki, Durin, and Elyra, united by a greater purpose, now stood ready to face the battles to come, strengthened by friendship and the renewed hope that now shone in their hearts.