As James drew nearer, the air filled with the verdant scent of ivy, which clung to the stones in a tight embrace, as if to soften the hardness of the walls with whispers of life and growth. It was here, at the threshold between the wilds and civilization, that a clear voice cut through the silence, its tone rich with the musical quality unique to the Elvish tongue.

"Halt, traveler. Welcome to Ravenveil. What brings you to our gate?" The words floated down from above, where an Elf guard, Eldrin, stood watch.