A cool evening breeze rustled the leaves of the massive oak tree as the sun's last light faded, casting long shadows across the village. The path Emma followed led her to a sight that took her breath away. Standing before her was one of the most unique homes she had ever seen in this world—a grand house carved seamlessly into the shape of an ancient oak tree.
The roots of the oak rose to form the base of the home, with a massive door nestled at the tree's base, its polished wood engraved with intricate patterns of leaves and vines. Lanterns hanging from the lower branches glowed softly, illuminating a front garden bursting with colorful flowers—reds, yellows, and purples that seemed to shimmer faintly under the magical streetlamps. The lawn, meticulously trimmed, spread like a green carpet, while the air was filled with the light chirping of birds nesting in the tree's upper canopy.
Emma stood at the wrought-iron gate, Anna still perched on her back. Her eyes widened as she took in the sight, muttering to herself, This is the fanciest place I've seen since I got here.
"You can go in. The gate's open," Anna said softly, her voice breaking Emma's awe-stricken silence.
"Are you sure?" Emma asked, glancing at Anna, who nodded firmly.
Emma hesitated but then pushed open the gate, its hinges creaking slightly. The path leading to the door was lined with smooth white stones that crunched faintly under her boots. As she approached the grand door, it opened suddenly, and a woman rushed out.
The woman bore a striking resemblance to Anna. Her hair was the same silvery-white, flowing down her back like moonlight, and her deep green eyes radiated both worry and relief. Dressed in an elegant gown of forest green, she had an air of refinement that seemed perfectly suited to her majestic home.
"Anna!" the woman called, her voice trembling with emotion as she hurried down the path.
Emma instinctively crouched to let Anna down. The elf woman immediately scooped her daughter into her arms, holding her tightly. "Anna, my darling, where have you been? The carriage was supposed to bring you hours ago!"
Emma stood awkwardly to the side, unsure if she should stay or slip away quietly. She took a step toward the gate, but Anna's voice called her back.
"Emma!"
Emma turned, startled to hear her name. Anna smiled softly and looked up at her mother. "Mum, the new carriage had an accident. One of the wheels came loose, and Gary had to go find a replacement. He didn't want to leave me alone, but I told him it was fine. Then… well, I fell out of the carriage, and Emma helped me. She carried me all the way here."
Anna's mother turned her gaze to Emma, her eyes scanning the young girl's simple clothes. Emma felt a pang of discomfort under the woman's scrutiny, her fists clenching briefly as she suppressed the urge to pluck her eyes out. How can you look at me like that.....
However, the woman's expression softened into a warm smile.
"Thank you," she said sincerely. "Thank you for bringing my daughter home safely."
Emma blinked, caught off guard by the gratitude. She quickly bowed her head slightly, trying to appear polite. "No need to thank me, Miss," she said, her voice steady but modest.
"Please," the woman continued, "won't you come inside? I'd like to thank you properly, with more than just words."
Emma hesitated. The sky above was already darkening, stars beginning to peek out, and the sounds of the Green Festival drifted faintly on the breeze. She thought of her family and the festival she was eager to attend.
"Thank you, Miss, but I really don't need much," Emma said, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Just a little favor."
The woman raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A favor?"
"Yes," Emma replied, her tone light. "I just need something green to bring to the festival. That's all."
The woman's surprise was evident, and she studied Emma for a moment before speaking. "Are you sure that's all you want? It's such a small request for someone who helped my daughter."
Emma nodded firmly. "That's all I need, Miss."
The woman called into the house, summoning a maid who appeared swiftly. She whispered something to the maid, who disappeared inside the oak tree. A moment later, the maid returned, carrying a small object wrapped in green cloth.
The maid handed the item to Emma, who accepted it eagerly. She unwrapped it slightly to peek inside—a polished green crystal stick, shimmering faintly under the lamplight.
"Thank you very much, Miss—uh, what should I call you?" Emma asked, glancing back at the woman.
"Vera," she replied with a smile.
Emma nodded. "Thank you, Miss Vera." She turned to Anna, still cradled in her mother's arms. "I'll see you at the festival later, Anna. And don't forget—I promised to sit with you."
Anna's cheeks flushed slightly, and she nodded. "I'll hold you to that."
With a wave, Emma turned and made her way back toward the gate. As she disappeared into the evening shadows, Vera glanced down at Anna, her smile soft.
"You've made your first friend here, Anna," she said warmly.
Anna nodded, her voice quiet but hopeful. "I hope we stay friends forever."
"Come now," Vera said, shifting Anna in her arms. "Your father and siblings are waiting for you inside. Let's get ready for the festival."
Together, they entered the grand oak tree house, their laughter and conversation fading as the door closed behind them. The soft glow of lanterns illuminated the garden, and the evening air seemed to hum with quiet joy.