Talia was a beautiful elf whose grace shone in the first rays of the morning sun.
The early morning dawned gently over the still lake, surrounded by lush greenery and a hint of mist floating over the surface of the water.
The water was calm, still, almost like a mirror reflecting the sky and radiating a magical calm.
Talia loved these moments when the world seemed to be asleep and she could melt into nature all by herself.
Slowly and deliberately, she stepped into the lake.
The water cooled her skin as she walked further in until it reached her hips.
Her clothes, a thin, golden fabric, clung gently to her body and shimmered in the soft light of the morning sun.
She closed her eyes, raised her arms above her head and ran her hands through her damp hair.
A soft sigh escaped her lips as she enjoyed the silence, interrupted only by the occasional birdsong and the gentle lapping of the water.
Talia knew that this time alone was precious.
In her world, full of obligations and expectations, she often sought refuge in the solitude of nature.
Here, in the heart of the forest, she could let go of her thoughts, shed the burden of her role as guardian of the forest and just be – free, peaceful, in complete harmony with the elements around her.
But today, on this quiet morning, something was different.
A soft rustling in the bushes on the bank made her prick up her ears.
Her fine elven ears registered the sound immediately.
Although she couldn’t see anyone, she sensed the presence of observers.
Talia paused, the water around her legs swirling slightly as she turned her head in the direction of the sound.
A brief moment of unease passed through her, but she didn’t let it show.
Elves had a natural calmness that they maintained even in the most unexpected moments.
She stood still, her eyes still closed, and now listened carefully.
She could hear muffled voices in the distance.
They were not loud, disturbing noises, but rather a soft murmur, like the whisper of the wind.
It was as if an unseen presence was watching her morning ceremony, but she felt no threat.
The voices sounded gentle, almost reverent, as if they were respecting her, admiring her beauty without disturbing her.
A soft smile came to her lips.
Perhaps they were just forest dwellers, curious, attracted by the magic of the early morning.
Or it could be travelers seeking the shelter of the forest who happened to witness this quiet, intimate scene.
Talia took a deep breath and slowly let herself slide into the water.
The coolness enveloped her body as she surrendered completely to the moment.
The voices in the distance gradually faded away, the rustling stopped.
She was alone again – just her, the water and the rising sun as it cast its golden glow over the horizon.
This was their realm, their time.
And even the secret observers couldn’t change that.
