Rosalie's Kingdom {OLD VERSION- INCOMPLETE}

Chapter 35

Sharing a glance, they held hands and stepped into the tree.

Coming out on the other side was disorienting to say the least. The two rankers both stumbled slightly and they found themselves in a forest; it was the same as the one they left, yet different at the same time. Everything seemed more vibrant and alive, almost as if Ro could feel the life flowing through each leaf, branch, and blade of grass. Sunlight filtered through the dense canopy with ease, lighting their way with warmth.

A small worn path led further in, a path that Twila was walking down. "Come along, young ones," she said. "We're nearly there. Only a short walk and we'll be at the city's edge." The cat turned to look the two in the eyes. "While we're walking, I am going to explain a few key things that you need to follow.

"Remember, young ones, this is not like your world," she continued on the path with Rosalie and Corvin following. "The Fae are a fickle people. Their longevity means grudges are easily held. In most case, don't speak unless spoken to, especially if I am not with you. You'll likely end up digging your own grave. Are you understanding so far?"

She glanced back to see Ro and Corvin both nodding. "Good. Corvin, this rule is especially true for you. Rosalie is the princess, she will have more freedom when it comes to speaking. The Fae recognize her as a special case, and they have heard of what she's done concerning a few incidents. They have eyes everywhere." She paused to let a family of quail pass by.

"Most likely, Corvin, you will have to prove yourself to them in some way, be it with your wit and sly words or trial by sword. The latter I do not recommend." The cat turned her green eyes on him for effect, to make sure her point had gotten across. "And the most important rule: do not, under any circumstance, thank one of the Fae while in their domain. Saying thank you is equal to owing a debt. Even I wouldn't be able to get you out of it."

She turned to give them one last hard look before sighing and continuing on the path. "We'll be there once we pass this last bend," she said.

Rosalie stopped the big cat to kneel down and hug her. "Thank you, Twila," the girl said softly. She stood and readjusted the cloak on her shoulders. "Let's go." A smile came to her face when Corvin slipped his hand into her own.

Twila sighed again and turned the corner. Ro had noticed the path they were on had gradually become wider and more worn until it opened up to a city edge. Ro and Corvin gasped audibly at the sight before them.

A bustling city was revealed. Each building was made from nature; there were no bricks or straight edges. The shape and material varied for each structure, lending to a mish-mashed patchwork of colors. Walls made of twisted roots and branches sat next to a house made entirely of woven leaves. There was no apparent plan or theme, but instead of chaos, a sense of harmony and unity was consistent. Rosalie found that she was in love with it.

"Ro." Corvin nudged her, snapping her out of her thoughts. "Twila is waiting for us." He nodded his head towards the cat, who sat impatiently waiting for them to take in the sights.

"Stick close to me, young ones," she said briskly. Despite her terse tone, Rosalie could tell Twila was happy to be home. She had a new glint in her eye that made her seem younger.

Fae were out walking and tending to their business. They were all diverse in the truest sense of the word.

Small pixies flitted about tall and graceful elves that looked like something out of Tolkien's books. Gnomes waddled, fairies flew, and nymphs and dryads swung merrily through the treetops.

The apparent disregard for clothing was startling; a blush was already showing on Rosalie's face. She glanced over to see Corvin in a similar state. He leaned down to her ear as they walked.

"It's a little...awkward to say the least," he whispered. She stifled a giggle with her hand. "Let's hope the Queen's court is less lenient about dress."

"At least cover the essentials," she whispered back, making them both laugh. They noticed Twila looking back at them expectantly.

"Are you two-"

"Twila!"

The three travellers turned their heads to the source of the cry. A large, tiger-like cat was pushing through the crowded path, running full speed at them. The cat pounced on Twila. The two cats, started rolling around in a play fight like kittens. They sprung up again quickly. Ro didn't miss the huge smile on both their faces.

"Elva!" Twila exclaimed. They butted heads affectionately. "It's been far too long."

Elva, as Twila had called her, began laughing merrily. "Little star, I have missed you as well," she said.

Once they finally stood still, Rosalie noticed the similarities between the two. "Rosalie! Corvin! Come, meet my sister," Twila said, inviting the couple closer.

"Hello, your highness," Elva said, bowing her head slightly to the girl. Her pale green eyes, much like Twila's, twinkled when turned on Corvin. "Young Lord Duarte. It's a pleasure to meet you both."

"It's an honor to meet another noble protector, especially one related to Twila," he said, bowing deeply.

The two sisters shared a knowing glance before exploding into laughter. It's like seeing a new side to her, Ro thought happily. I'm glad I can see her so happy like this.

"Please, Lord Duarte, there is no need for such niceties with one such as myself," Elva assured. Her warm orange fur shined in the sunlight as she turned. "Come, young ones. The Queen has requested I bring you to the court sooner rather than later." She bounded away swiftly.

Rosalie looked to Corvin with a huge grin on her face. "I like her," she stated to no one in particular. Her two companions chuckled.

"Let us continue," Twila said.

"Little star! You are as swift as a snail!" Elva called from the top of a nearby building. Twila grumbled under breath, but followed her sister on the ground, being sure her two charges were close behind.