Night had settled over **Greenwood Forest**, but the village was far from quiet.
The great bonfire in the center of the clearing crackled warmly, sending sparks drifting into the cool night air. The scent of burning cedarwood mixed with the fresh fragrance of moss and wildflowers that grew along the forest floor.
Elves gathered in small groups around the fire, talking, laughing, and sharing food after a long day of rebuilding and training.
Some were roasting strips of venison over the flames.
Others passed around cups of herbal tea.
Children chased each other between the tree houses that formed the outer ring of the village.
For the first time in many days…
Greenwood felt peaceful again.
The long shadows of ancient trees danced across the ground as the flames flickered.
And near the edge of the clearing lay the largest presence in the entire forest.
John.
