Elvis charged out of the palace gates with his imperial guards, his snow-furred direwolf Silverwind carrying him swiftly toward West Hill.
Maplewood Village
Every soul in Maplewood Village had turned out at the entrance, eager to witness their crown prince's grandeur. Their excitement turned to gasps as they spotted a colossal white wolf barreling toward them with a young rider, sending villagers scrambling back in alarm.
"Your humble servant greets Your Highness!" Village Head Oscar pressed his forehead to the earth in reverence.
"Rise, Oscar. How fare my precious tubers?" Elvis helped the old man up with an amused grin.
"Your Highness, the sprouts have emerged! We've been anxiously awaiting your arrival!" Oscar's weathered face split into a sycophantic smile.
"Excellent. I'll tend
