Still catching their breath, Wes and Scarlett walked slowly through the forest, their smiles genuine but their steps just a bit heavier.
"I'm not gonna lie," Wes panted, "those killer bees took more out of me than I expected."
"We won, but yeah... that was no easy warm-up," Scarlett agreed, stretching her arms. "Fighting ten flying death bugs wasn't how I expected our morning to go."
"So… what now?" Wes asked. "Find a city? Maybe there's a town or something nearby."
"Probably our best bet. Cities usually mean maps, inns, and less fighting giant bugs."
They started walking again, enjoying a few more minutes of calm—until a BOOM ripped through the trees ahead.
They both froze.
"Was that an explosion?" Wes asked, already alert.
"It came from up ahead..." Scarlett said cautiously. "Again? We just finished fighting, and now this?"
"It could be anything," Wes replied. "A battle. A monster attack. Or maybe... two epic beings fighting for the fate of the forest! Just like an anime!"
Scarlett gave him a flat look. "You're hopeless."
"I'm curious! I mean, this is peak isekai content—we can't not check it out!"
He grinned and darted ahead using Parkour Movement, leaping onto a tree branch.
"Idiot," Scarlett muttered and followed with a sigh.
They raced toward the sound. With each bounding step and rustling leaf, the clashes grew louder—steel against scales, shouting, screaming.
They came to a stop near a large clearing. Wes crouched behind a tree, peering around it.
"Whoa..." he whispered.
"No way..." Scarlett said beside him.
A group of seven knights clad in silver and blue armor battled a monstrous Verdant Fang Serpent—a massive, emerald-scaled snake with glowing green fangs and eyes like emerald fire.
The creature lashed out, knocking knights back with its immense tail, its fangs dripping with venom.
"That thing's huge!" Wes whispered. "Appraisal!"
D-Rank Monster: Verdant Fang Serpent
HP: 1,200
MP: 200
Skills: Constrict, Venom Fang, Forest Camouflage, Roar, Coil Slam
Description: A massive forest-dwelling serpent known for its deadly venom and powerful physical attacks. Commonly appears in D-rank adventuring zones, but its threat is high due to speed and size.
"That's no joke," Wes said. "A D-rank monster... and it's giving those knights hell."
"Should we help?" Scarlett asked, brows furrowed.
"Let's wait... see how it plays out."
Then Scarlett saw something beyond the knights.
"Look," she whispered, pointing. "Behind the knights."
Wes followed her gaze.
Standing tall behind the line of fighters was a young woman—radiant and commanding.
Long, flowing platinum-blonde hair spilled down her back. A delicate tiara rested atop her head. Her eyes were gentle violet, flecked with gold. She wore elegant white and silver robes embroidered with healing runes, and held a radiant staff topped with a golden, sun-shaped crystal.
She narrowed her eyes, then shouted, "Do not falter, my knights! Do not bring shame to the Kingdom of Elaria! Are you with me?!"
"YES, PRINCESS AMARA LYSELLE!" the knights bellowed.
She smiled. "Good. Then charge the beast!"
The knights let out a unified war cry and charged the monstrous serpent.
"She's a princess?!" Wes whispered, wide-eyed.
"What is a princess doing way out here fighting a D-rank monster?" Scarlett asked, stunned.
Wes's curiosity took over. Let's see what she can do.
"Appraisal: Princess Amara Lyselle."
Name: Amara Lyselle
Class: Cleric / Light Mage
Titles: The Noble Healer, Princess of Elaria
Skills: Light Barrier, Heal Pulse, Purification Beam, Blessing Wave, Mana Ward
Personality: Kind-Hearted & Graceful, Secretly Mischievous, Emotionally Strong, Idealistic but Grounded, Protective
Description: A royal-born cleric with the rare dual affinity for healing and light-based offensive magic. Trained in both sacred arts and battlefield leadership.
"Whoa... she's both a cleric and a light mage?" Wes whispered.
"That's rare... she's strong," Scarlett added. "And brave."
The fight raged. Knights struck at the serpent's body, slashing into its thick scales. Their attacks landed—but not deeply. The serpent hissed, coiling and slamming the ground.
"Captain Arwen Durnhal, keep pressure on it! I'll protect you!" Amara called.
The knight captain looked back and nodded. "Understood, my Princess!"
He turned to his men. "FOR ELARIA! FIGHT FOR THE PRINCESS!"
The serpent retaliated, sweeping its tail and launching three knights into trees. Only Arwen and two others still stood.
"It's overpowering them!" Scarlett said.
"We might need to step in soon," Wes replied.
The princess cast Heal Pulse to revive one of her knights, then chanted Light Barrier around Arwen as he engaged.
The serpent coiled, then lashed out with ferocious speed. Arwen tried to dodge—but it slammed him into a tree.
"CAPTAIN DURNHAL!" Amara screamed.
The knight groaned, staggering up. "I... must protect... the princess... I can't... bring shame to the Kingdom..."
He tried to lift his sword but stumbled.
"Hold on!" Amara shouted, eyes wide.
The serpent hissed again and slammed its tail into Arwen, sending him crashing into another tree. He hit the ground, motionless.
"COMMANDER!" the knights cried in horror.
"ARWEN!" Amara gasped.
The serpent turned, eyes gleaming with predatory hunger. It began slithering toward Arwen's unmoving body.
"No... please no..." Amara whispered, panic rising.
The knights groaned, crawling across the ground, some bleeding. "Princess! Run! Get out of here!"
"Leave him, your Highness! It's too dangerous!"
"Don't let it touch him—!"
The serpent loomed inches from Arwen. Its massive head swayed back and forth, eyeing the unconscious knight.
Wes and Scarlett watched, frozen in tension.
"This is bad," Wes muttered. "That knight's about to be snake chow."
"We may have to step in—"
The serpent opened its maw, dripping venom, fangs gleaming.
FWIP!
Amara dashed forward.
"LIGHT BARRIER SHIELD!"
A dome of shimmering light appeared just as the serpent's head slammed against it.
THOOM!
The beast recoiled, confused.
Wes's eyes widened. "She blocked it. She actually blocked it."
Scarlett said quietly, "She didn't even hesitate..."
Inside the dome, Amara kneeled beside Arwen.
"Please... get up... open your eyes... you promised me you'd come back..."
The serpent roared again and smashed into the barrier. A web of cracks began spreading.
"I can't... hold this for long..." Amara whispered, her hands glowing, pouring mana into the shield. "Think, Amara, think! What else can you do?!"
Another hit. Another fracture.
Tears welled in her eyes. Is this it? Is this where I fall? I don't want to die…
The snake reared back again.
"Someone... please... SAVE ME!!"
The serpent lunged.
Princess Amara's eyes clenched shut as she braced for the fangs to tear through her.
But instead of pain—
"ARC SLASH!!!"
A powerful voice rang out. A blur of motion, a flash of steel—then a CLANG! as metal met fang. The ringing echo of the clash shook the trees.
Amara opened her eyes in shock. Standing between her and the beast was a young woman in a sword stance, blade extended, her presence strong and unwavering.
"Are you alright?" the woman asked calmly.
"W-Who... who are you...?" Amara stammered, eyes wide.
The figure turned slightly, revealing her striking crimson ponytail and emerald eyes.
"Sorry for the entrance. I'm swordswoman Scarlett Hayes. Nice to meet you."
Amara was about to reply, but the serpent roared again, lashing out with renewed fury.
"It's coming again!" Amara cried.
Scarlett sighed. "Wes, where are you, you idiot?!"
"Sorry, I'm coming!" a new voice shouted. "WIND BULLET!!!"
A massive gust erupted from the trees. A shockwave slammed into the serpent, launching it backward through two trees with a resounding BOOM!
From the smoke and leaves descended a young man with raven-black hair and amber eyes, a sleek revolver in hand.
"Talk about making an entrance, huh? That had some serious punch, right?" Wes grinned.
Scarlett rolled her eyes. "Would you please be serious for once?!"
Wes chuckled as he jogged toward her and Amara. "Hey now, I was being serious. I couldn't just let that big bad bear—er, snake—touch the lady."
"Idiot!" Scarlett snapped and smacked him hard across the back of the head.
"OW! What was that for?!" Wes yelped, hopping in pain.
"For being an idiot, that's what!"
Amara blinked at their antics, utterly bewildered. Who are these people...?
"Saving damsel in distress just in time... classic fantasy move, right?" Wes grinned.
Scarlett sighed, shaking her head. "You cut it way too close. But... nice job."
Amara finally found her voice. "Who... who are you two?"
Scarlett stood straighter and offered a small bow. "I'm Scarlett Hayes. And this dork beside me is Wes Walker. We're travelers."
"Nice to meet you, Princess," Wes added with a wink. "Wes Walker—magic gunslinger, at your service."
Amara blushed slightly. "I-I'm Princess Amara Lyselle... and thank you both for saving me."
"No problem! Any time!" Wes said cheerfully.
Scarlett frowned as Wes winked again, then stomped on his foot.
"YEOW!! WHAT WAS THAT FOR?!"
"For being a flirty idiot!"
Amara giggled at their back-and-forth, but the moment was cut short by a deep, angry rumble.
The rubble shifted.
From the pile of shattered trees and cracked stone rose the Verdant Fang Serpent, eyes blazing with rage. It let out a thunderous HISSSSS, scales flaring.
"Okay, yeah—he's mad," Wes muttered.
"Why isn't it dead yet?!" Scarlett growled.
"Probably because it's LEVEL 25 and we're LEVEL 4," Wes answered.
Amara's expression turned serious. "This monster... it's not just big. It's an elite variant."
Wes narrowed his eyes. How do we bring it down...
Then he smiled.
Scarlett saw the grin and scowled. "Why are you smiling like that?"
Wes turned to Amara. "Hey Princess, help me out. Can you use a healing spell on me?"
"H-Healing? Um... yes. I can."
She lifted her staff. "HEALING WAVE!"
A soft light washed over Wes.
DING!
New Bullet Crafted: Healing Bullet
"Perfect," Wes grinned. "Now for the fun part."
"What are you doing?!" Scarlett asked.
Wes lifted his revolver. "HEALING BULLET—X7!"
Seven glowing rounds launched from his gun, one by one. They spiraled through the air and struck the downed knights.
"WES, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" Amara screamed in horror.
"YOU ABSOLUTE IDIOT!" Scarlett howled.
In a blur, Scarlett lunged and grabbed Wes into a headlock, cranking his neck.
"ACK—SCARLETT—MY HEAD—IT'S GONNA POP!" Wes cried, flailing.
"YOU SHOT HER KNIGHTS?! HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND?!"
"I'M HELPING—THIS IS HELPING, I SWEAR!"
"YOU'RE GONNA GET US KILLED, YOU MORON!"
"SCARLETT—I CAN'T FEEL MY BRAIN—MY BRAIN IS CRAMPING!"
Amara stepped back, utterly overwhelmed.
Scarlett finally released him. Wes collapsed, wheezing. "Ughh... headlock of death... noted..."
"LOOK!" Wes groaned, pointing.
The knights began to stir. Their wounds closed, armor reformed, color returned to their faces.
Captain Arwen slowly opened his eyes. "Ugh... I... live...?"
One knight pushed himself up, touching his ribs. "Wait... my wounds... they're gone?"
Another looked down at his arm. "I should've lost this limb... it's healed... completely."
"I feel... great! Better than before the fight!"
"What kind of magic is this?!"
Amara gasped. They're... healed? All of them? Her gaze turned to Wes.
She studied the revolver in his hand. What kind of weapon... no, what kind of spellcaster is he? A gun that can shoot healing magic...? That's unheard of...
Before she could speak, the serpent roared again.
Its body reared up, then lunged out of the rubble with terrifying speed.
"It's coming!" Scarlett shouted.
"Let's finish this—TOGETHER!" Wes yelled.
He spun the chamber of Reveria.
Amara nodded, her voice steady. "Knights! Form up! For Elaria!"
"YES, YOUR HIGHNESS!"
Scarlett drew her blade, eyes focused. "Let's go."
Wes grinned. "Time to put this ugly overgrown lizard down."
Everyone took position, magic, steel, and resolve at the ready.
The serpent lunged again, massive jaws wide open.
Wes and Scarlett dodged at the last second, rolling across the ground as the snake slammed into where they had just been.
Captain Arwen Durnhal landed several feet away, sword in hand. "CHARGE!!"
The knights of Elaria roared and surged forward, weapons raised high. The colossal serpent hissed furiously, meeting them in a violent clash of fang, steel, and magic.
Princess Amara stood behind the frontline, casting healing spells and barrier shields over her warriors. "Hold your ground! Protect each other! Stay in formation!"
The clash was brutal. Blades struck scales. The serpent retaliated with vicious sweeps of its massive tail, its fangs glistening with venom. One knight lunged, piercing the serpent's flank, but was knocked aside by its body.
Another knight slid under the beast's tail, slashing at its underbelly.
Amara cried out, "BARRIER! HEALING LIGHT!"
Golden shields flickered over the injured knights. Light wrapped around wounded soldiers, patching gashes and broken bones. Arwen parried a fang strike, then retaliated with a sweeping blow to the serpent's snout.
"Hold formation! Stay low and attack its underbelly! Don't let it coil!"
Scarlett moved like wind among the knights. Her sword glowed faintly as she ducked beneath the serpent's fangs and sliced across its scales.
"CRIMSON ARC!" she shouted.
Her blade drew a deep cut into the beast's side. It screeched and turned toward her.
"Let's try that combo again!" Wes called.
Scarlett nodded and dashed forward.
Wes spun his revolver. "WATER BULLET!"
The snake was drenched.
"LIGHTNING BULLET!"
The next shot electrified the serpent's soaked body. It screamed in fury, spasming.
Scarlett charged, flipping over the beast's writhing body, and stabbed downward. "CROSS STRIKE!"
The blade slashed down its back, drawing a roar.
The knights regrouped.
"We've got it on the ropes!" one shouted.
"It's weakening!"
"Push harder!"
"Your Highness, right flank is exposed!"
"BARRIER—NOW!" Amara shouted.
She spun her staff, casting another protective shield as the serpent's tail swept that way.
Scarlett flipped back beside Wes. "Think it's time you showed off a little."
Wes cracked his neck. "You know me. I do best when I'm moving."
He leapt forward.
The serpent roared, snapping toward him.
Wes activated Parkour Movement.
He sprinted forward, then jumped off a boulder, flipping over a swing of the serpent's tail. He rebounded off a tree trunk, twisting mid-air.
"MANA BULLET!" BANG! A shot struck the serpent's eye.
He grabbed a low-hanging branch, swung up onto it, and leapt to a higher one, bouncing off it to reach the serpent's back.
"MANA BULLET!" BANG! Another shot pierced its scaled shoulder.
He vaulted off the serpent's spine, landed on a fallen log, and from there, used a large root jutting from the earth to springboard onto a broken statue head half-buried in the ground.
"MANA BULLET—TRIPLE SHOT!" BANG! BANG! BANG!
The bullets struck its torso, exploding in flashes of blue light.
He flipped backward, caught the edge of a branch with one hand, spun around it, and launched himself again—this time, rebounding off the serpent's coiled body and landing on a mossy rock.
"You mad yet?!" Wes laughed.
From the ground, Scarlett narrowed her eyes. "He's literally turning this into a playground."
Amara stared, wide-eyed. "Is he… enjoying himself?"
"He is," Arwen muttered, watching Wes bounce off tree trunks and giant rocks. "What kind of madman fights like that... and smiles while doing it?"
"He's chaotic… but effective," said one knight.
"It's like watching a magical squirrel with a gun."
"Except the squirrel is cocky and impossible to hit."
Wes grinned. "BOUNCE BULLET!" He fired downward while mid-air, and the round ricocheted off the serpent's scale and hit its underbelly.
The serpent hissed and slammed its tail.
"Oops."
Wes twisted, tried to block—
CRACK!
The tail collided with his arms, launching him backward. He hit a tree, bark and splinters flying, and slid to the ground.
Scarlett screamed. "WES!"
"That looked brutal," muttered one knight.
Amara gasped. "Is he okay?!"
Wes sat up, wincing. "Yep. That hurt. A lot."
He looked up and saw the serpent lunge at him again.
"Nope!"
"LIGHT BARRIER!" Amara's voice rang out.
A golden dome appeared just in time. The serpent slammed into it, stunned.
Wes stared at the barrier. "Thanks for saving my butt again, Princess."
Amara lowered her staff, exhaling. "Just returning the favor."
Wes whispered, "Flashstep."
He vanished in a blur and reappeared next to Scarlett and Amara.
Scarlett scowled. "You alive, idiot?"
"Alive and mildly concussed."
"Then stop joking!"
"Can't. It's a coping mechanism."
The serpent roared again.
Captain Arwen stood firm. "We need a coordinated final assault. Everyone ready?"
Amara nodded. "We'll support you."
Scarlett raised her sword. "Let's finish this thing."
Wes grinned. "Time to make this snake wish it stayed in its hole."
Wes raised his revolver and pointed it at the monstrous serpent.
"Let's finish this, shall we?"
Everyone nodded.
"LIGHTNING BULLET!" Wes shouted.
BOOM! A blinding flash of lightning surged from the barrel, slamming into the serpent's face. The beast shrieked and recoiled, its vision dazed by the burst of light.
Captain Arwen took the cue. "NOW! GO!"
The knights of Elaria roared and surged forward.
Swords clanged, sparks flew. Steel scraped against scaled armor. One knight leapt high and drove his blade into the side of the serpent's neck. Another swung his axe low, slicing into the creature's underbelly.
"Hold formation! Keep it turning! Don't let it focus on one of us!" Arwen commanded.
The serpent whipped around, its tail knocking three knights off their feet. Another lashed out with a spear but was swatted away with its jaws, landing hard on the ground.
The beast thrashed in frustration, biting, coiling, smashing. A knight climbed onto its side and stabbed again and again, only to be hurled off with a vicious twist.
The battle was savage. Amara cast healing spells rapidly.
"STAY ALIVE! I've got you! BARRIER!"
Golden shields formed just as the tail swept through, protecting two knights from a fatal blow.
Scarlett dashed through the chaos, blade flashing. She flipped off a knight's shield, then slashed downward.
"CRIMSON ARC!"
The blade dug deep into the serpent's neck—but not enough. Blood sprayed, but the beast kept moving.
Scarlett landed beside Wes, panting.
"Damn it… it still wasn't enough!"
"Back me up," she said.
"Always got your back. Let's do it."
Wes nodded, then pointed his revolver. "GRAVITY BULLET!"
The serpent suddenly slammed to the ground, unable to lift its body.
Scarlett dashed in like a blur, slicing again at the same spot.
The wound deepened, but still the beast snarled and moved.
It lunged at Scarlett—
"LIGHT BARRIER!" Amara shouted.
A radiant wall shimmered between them. The serpent smashed into it and recoiled.
Scarlett glanced back, breathing hard. "Thanks, Princess."
"No problem," Amara replied.
Scarlett turned to Wes. "Finish it, idiot!"
Wes grinned. "You got it."
He aimed straight at the center of the beast's forehead.
"Goodbye, Mr. Scales. FIRE BULLET—FULL POWER!"
The revolver glowed with intense flame. Magic gathered in the barrel, spiraling with a loud hum.
BOOM!!! A massive fireball burst forth like a comet, crashing into the serpent's skull with devastating impact.
The explosion rocked the field. A roar of wind and heat followed.
CRACK! SPLINTER! The serpent screamed in pain—and then...
WHOOSH!
Its entire body ignited.
The fire consumed it swiftly. It writhed one last time—then fell.
THUD!!! The impact shook the earth.
Dust and smoke billowed.
Everything went still.
Wes fell backward, landing on the ground, arms spread.
"I... did it..." he laughed, breathless.
The knights froze. Then slowly, they stepped closer.
"Did he just... kill it with one bullet?"
"That flame... was it pure fire magic?"
"What kind of weapon is that?!"
"It's not a staff… not a wand… never seen anything like it."
"Is that... some kind of divine artifact?"
"It's... a revolver?"
"Whatever it is—it's terrifying."
Princess Amara stood stunned. That final shot… it burned right through the monster's skull. Such power… She looked at Wes as he lay there laughing. And he's smiling, even now. That grin...
Her cheeks flushed pink. Why is my heart... fluttering?
Scarlett walked over, standing above Wes.
"You alive, idiot?"
"Barely," he grinned. "Tired. Outta magic. Everything hurts. But totally worth it."
Scarlett huffed. "You reckless idiot."
Wes laughed dramatically. "Saved the day—with a bang!"
"You also nearly died with a bang."
She helped him up, slinging his arm over her shoulder.
Wes smiled. "We did it, partner. Took down a giant snake. Nothing can stop us."
Scarlett rolled her eyes. "You're ridiculous."
But her smile crept in as she whispered, "...Yeah. We did."
Amara slowly approached, staff in hand, her heart still racing.
Who are they? Where did they come from? Why do I feel so... relieved they were here?
Her eyes drifted again to Wes's grin—and she blushed.
"Hey, Princess!" Wes called, smiling lazily. "What's up?"
Scarlett pinched his side.
"GAHH! OW! I'M ALREADY DYING HERE!"
"Don't flirt with royalty, idiot!"
"She's the one walking over here! What am I supposed to do—not smile?!"
"Yes! Control your dumb face!"
Amara giggled behind her hand.
"Are you okay, Wes?" she asked gently.
Wes gave her a shaky thumbs up. "Just... drained."
Scarlett exhaled. "Let me help."
Before Wes could respond, Amara stepped forward.
"Allow me."
She took his hand.
Scarlett blinked. "Huh?"
"HEALING GRACE."
Light shimmered around Wes, flowing into his chest. His body lifted slightly as the warmth rushed through him.
"What... whoa. What's happening...?"
Then the light faded.
He dropped back to the ground, then stood up tall, refreshed.
"Ohhh YEAH! I feel amazing!"
He stretched and cracked his neck. "Thank you, my beautiful princess."
Amara turned bright red.
B-Beautiful? Did he really call me...?
"STOP FLIRTING!" Scarlett yelled and slapped him upside the head.
"OWWW! ABUSE! This is abuse! I was being grateful!"
"Be quiet! You're lucky I don't burn your stupid face off."
"How?! You don't even use fire magic!"
"I'll find a way!"
Amara burst out laughing, covering her mouth.
"You two are quite the pair," she said.
From a distance, Captain Arwen watched quietly, arms crossed, eyes sharp.
Who are these two...? And where did they come from?
Wes stood over the scorched battlefield, panting and bruised, staring at the charred corpse of the massive D-rank Verdant Fang Serpent.
"I actually did it… I beat a level 25 monster... and I'm only level 3..." he muttered, wide-eyed.
Just as he finished speaking, a glowing screen materialized in front of him.
LEVEL UP!
+5 Levels Achieved
Wes Walker – Level 3 → Level 8
"WOAH!" Wes jumped back. "I just jumped FIVE levels?!"
Scarlett peeked over his shoulder. "That's what happens when you deal the finishing blow on a monster that much higher than you, idiot. You probably skipped like three days' worth of training."
Wes blinked. I've only been reincarnated into this world a few hours ago… and already I've leveled up five times, fought a giant snake, and saved a princess… This world is seriously wild.
Captain Arwen Durnhal approached them, his armor scuffed and dusty. "Your Highness, we should return to the city. It's best you're home before nightfall."
Amara nodded solemnly. "Yes… My father must hear of this."
"The roads will be more dangerous after dark," Arwen added. "We must leave now."
"Agreed." Amara turned to Wes and Scarlett, an idea forming in her mind. She smiled warmly.
"Wes, Scarlett… will you come with me to the city? My father, the king, will want to meet the ones who saved his daughter. He would surely reward you."
Wes and Scarlett exchanged a look.
Wes shrugged with a grin. "Sure. I've never met a king before. Sounds like fun."
Scarlett sighed, but nodded. "We'll come."
Amara's eyes lit up. "Good. Then let's go."
The knights quickly prepared the carriages. Amara stepped into hers, then looked back with a gentle smile.
"Come on."
Wes and Scarlett climbed in, settling across from the princess. The carriage jolted forward, wheels turning as they began the ride through the forest road.
Wes leaned against the window and grinned. Just a few hours ago I was in a classroom, playing a game under my desk… Now I've got a magic gun, leveled up five times, saved a princess, and taken down a massive snake.
He laughed to himself. This really is the isekai life.
He looked at the plush seat beneath him, then out the window. "So this is what it feels like to ride in a royal carriage. Soft cushions, gold trim… Yep, this is luxury!"
Scarlett rolled her eyes. "Idiot."
Amara giggled. "It is quite comfortable. I suppose royalty has its perks."
Scarlett sighed. "Sorry for his stupid remarks."
Amara waved her hand, smiling. "It's fine. It's refreshing, actually."
Wes leaned forward. "So how long until we get to your city?"
Amara looked thoughtful. "At our current pace, we'll arrive by nightfall. A few more hours."
Scarlett asked, "What's the name of your city?"
Amara smiled with pride. "The capital of our kingdom: Luminaris. A place of peace and unity. Humans, elves, dwarves, beastkin, and many more all live in harmony there."
Wes's eyes sparkled. "Wait, really?! Beastkin? Elves? This place just keeps getting better!"
Amara giggled at his enthusiasm. "Yes. You'll see many of them when we arrive."
"That's... pretty impressive," Scarlett said. "Sounds like something out of a fairytale."
As the carriage rocked gently through the woods, Scarlett leaned slightly forward.
"Hey, Amara. Would you mind telling us more about your family? And the history of Luminaris?"
Amara nodded, her expression softening with thought.
"Of course. Luminaris was founded over three hundred years ago by King Aethar Lyselle, the ancestor of my father. He forged the kingdom during the Great Divide, uniting scattered people under one banner. Since then, each ruler of my family has continued to uphold those ideals of unity and peace."
Wes whistled. "So your dad's basically the latest in a long line of noble leaders, huh?"
"Yes," Amara said proudly. "My father—King Elion Lyselle—is beloved by all races. He's fair, strong, and deeply cares for our people."
Wes tilted his head. "What about the rest of your family? Your mom? Siblings?"
Amara smiled warmly. "My mother is Queen Elenys Lyselle. She used to be a battle priestess before marrying my father. She's strong, graceful, and wise. Still trains in magic to this day, even though she wears a crown now."
"A battle priestess turned queen? That's awesome," Wes said, impressed. "She sounds like a badass."
Scarlett nodded. "That's kind of inspiring, honestly."
Amara giggled again. "And then there's my little brother, Prince Rhal. He's... well, mischievous. A bit of a prankster. He's always hiding something in someone's tea or swapping people's boots. But he's clever, too. Just... exhausting."
Wes and Scarlett laughed.
"Sounds like someone I'd get along with," Wes chuckled.
"He'd probably try to prank you the second you step into the palace," Amara teased.
"Bring it on," Wes grinned. "I've got counter-pranks ready."
Scarlett smirked. "You're basically a giant prank, Wes."
The carriage continued down the winding road. After several more hours of riding, the forest began to thin, and the skyline opened up.
Wes poked his head out the window. "Wait a sec… Is that…?"
His eyes widened. "We made it! AWESOME!!!"
Amara giggled.
Scarlett groaned. "Idiot, get your head back in the carriage before it falls off."
As they approached the city gate, two armored guards stepped forward. Upon seeing the princess's crest, they bowed and waved them through.
The carriage rolled forward again, passing through the massive stone gates.
Inside, the streets were alive.
Wes and Scarlett looked out the windows, wide-eyed.
They saw elves bartering at merchant stalls, dwarves smithing enchanted tools, beastkin laughing over cups at outdoor cafés. Colorful banners waved from ornate buildings.
Food vendors shouted about roasted skewers, baked fruits, and frosted pastries.
Wes's mouth watered. "Whoa... All the races Amara mentioned… they're actually here. Look at those shops! That food!"
He spotted a group of kids chasing a ball. One boy saw Wes and waved. Wes smiled and waved back.
"So," Amara asked softly, "how do you like it so far?"
Wes and Scarlett turned to her, both smiling.
"Honestly?" Wes said. "It's incredible."
"Peaceful. Bright. Diverse," Scarlett added.
Amara smiled warmly. "I'm glad you feel that way. I think you'll love it."
A few minutes later, the carriage slowed in front of another towering gate of white stone.
Wes leaned forward. "Another huge gate? Why are we stopping?"
Amara smiled mysteriously. "Just wait."
The sound of gears echoed. Chains pulled. The gate lowered.
Beyond it stood a breathtaking palace of gleaming marble, crystal towers, and lush gardens.
Scarlett's mouth opened.
Wes gawked. "Whoa..."
"Welcome to my home," Amara said gently.
She looked at their stunned faces, giggling at their awe.
"No way..." Wes whispered. "That's where you live?!"
"It's like something out of a storybook," Scarlett said, still staring.
Wes grinned. "I can't wait to see inside."
To be continued...