The village stretched before Elysia like something out of a dream, each corner more charming than the last.
As she walked alongside the soldiers, the cobbled streets under her feet felt unfamiliar yet oddly comforting, and the air buzzed with a blend of excitement and curiosity.
"Alright, Queen-in-Disguise," one soldier teased, nudging her lightly with his elbow. "Ready to experience village life? Hope you're prepared for more than just sitting on a fancy throne."
Elysia rolled her eyes beneath her hood but couldn't suppress a smile. "I'll manage, somehow."
"Will you, though?" another soldier chimed in, grinning. "You don't exactly scream 'village girl.'"
Elysia shot him a playful glare. "You mean this cloak isn't enough to blend in?"
"Not when you walk like you're inspecting your kingdom," the scarred soldier laughed. "Relax a little. Try not to look like you're planning to raise taxes."
