Chapter Ten: The Lady of The Forest

The knights lying flat on their back from shock, they slowly sit up to behold the lady in front of them.

"Heroes of bravery. Please, walk with me, to my land", spoke the woman, clothed in a long robe of green jewels and pearls. Her hair was green also, shining in long, feathered flows of a slightly curled style.

Avery thought he saw before him, the most beautiful angel fallen from Heaven. He stared speechless, dumbstruck in wonder.

The other three men had risen, and taking a step forward and bowing; Toru answered her: "Lead the way, my lady. Surely we will come with you."

She turned and coming off the ground, floated through the bright portal.

The Prince leapt to his feet and dove through the portal after her.

Shaking their heads, the other knights followed him.

At the other side, was a completely different universe. Full of magical splendor, the men beheld a lush forest, and a garden with fruit, and waterfalls shining in the sun.

Looking at the tall oak tree, Avery saw sitting in it, a furry creature he had never seen before, perhaps an animal, although it was still magnificent and stately in form.

"Welcome to my kingdom, Stashashon. I am Sasha, princess of this magical abode. We are the Sprights of Spring, who are responsible for the growth of produce and greens in the world", Spoke the beautiful fairy, smiling gently with a curtsy.

"Fair lady, we are The Knights of Order. Protectors of Cravon, the city of danger and war. I am Toru, their leader. We happened to be excavating the castle grounds when by chance, we find a strange looking light dwelling on a rock. Striking it multiple times, here we found you. Pardon our interruption we may be causing."

"Valorous men, it is indeed, not by mere chance you appear. For from that boy there, I sense strength and deliverance", She replied nodding her head towards the still speechless Avery.

"Prince Avery of Cravon, at your service, madam", he said bowing and with her consent, kissed her hand tenderly.

"Cravon. Your kingdom is in mortal danger, young Prince. I have been observing your land and the evil king, Azackton. We Sprights of Spring wish to aid you in slaying him. If you will, please come with me to my castle", She said motioning towards the castle tops, slightly peeking through the tops of the trees.

"We shall come", Avery answered without hesitation.

Spreading her fair hands, both from each side, she summoned another portal to where it would take them to her castle.