Page 87 of Enchanting the Elf
Galadh. Tree of the forest.
“How can I assist you, elder?” I ask the tree that I’m guessing to be more than a thousand years old.
“Your mate has unlocked your true nature. Thus, you are henceforth able to access the intrinsic parts of your soul. It allows you to once again commune with nature the way your forebearers had, the way it was intended for your kind.”
“And Florence? Can she hear you too?” I turn my head and find her still frolicking through the meadow in nothing but the sweater she had commandeered from my wardrobe. She’s breathtaking.
“Ah, your dear mate,”Lebethron says with affection apparent in his voice.“I find it unfortunate that it is a gift only woodland elves have the honor of. However, her pure heart has granted her the ability to sense the soul of the forest. We are deeply connected to her and call her Lótë.”
“Flower,” I whisper to myself, feeling Florence’s Elvish name out. It’s perfect.
My lips quirk up. Trust Florence to not only enchant this elf but also the whole forest.
“The fates have foretold of you, Galadh,”Lebethron says in his grandfatherly voice.“You are the first elf in hundreds of years to have opened your heart so fully. It is time for woodland elves to return to the forest. To access their true magic the way youhave. To open their hearts and listen to the deepest parts of their souls.”
“I want to help. I want other elves to experience what I have, to be set free from the cage that has been placed around us. To feel, to truly live. Can you teach me more?”
“We only require you to make woodland elves aware of their nature, which has been hidden for too long. Let them leave their stone castle and bring them to the forests they are native to. We will guide each elf who is willing to learn, as we did with you. It will be their decision if they choose to listen.”
A plan takes shape in my mind and I stand up a bit straighter, a smile settling onto my lips. I can already imagine what my father’s response will be, but I will fight for this forest, for elves, no matter what.
“I can do that.”
Chat Log
THE BRETHREN
Adelbert: I am happy to report that Florence and I are mated.
Erik: Happy?!
Jamie: Who is this?
Harvey: Jamie, are you prank messaging from Bertie’s phone?
Rollo: Told you! Who had October?
Sawyer: I had September.
Jamie: Now I feel stupid for betting it’ll take a year.
Adelbert: You guys bet on me?
Edmond: Of course. We saw the way you looked at her on the island. Was only a matter of time until you let your heart do the talking.
Harvey: Congratulations to both of you. What did your dad say?
Adelbert: I’m telling him tomorrow. At the presentation.
Jasper: Double whammy. Nice. Can someone take video footage?
Everett: Anyone else have anything to report?
Daehan: Who’s gonna be next?
Adelbert: Whoever is waiting for some big sign, don’t. Pull your heads out of your asses and tell her how you feel. It’s worth it.
Everett: I second that.
