ALEXIS Walking back towards my parents' house felt surreal. I was flanked by Leaf and Roel, two of the High Elves who seemed to float more than walk, their steps so graceful it was like watching dancers on a stage. Angelo followed close behind, his eyes scanning every shadow as if expecting danger to leap out at any moment. As we approached the house, my heart raced. Mom would freak out, no doubt. She'd probably think I was abducted by aliens or something. I pushed the door open and was greeted by the scent of Korean cooking—comfort food in its purest form. "Mom!" I called out, my voice shaking despite myself. Susan Kim appeared from the kitchen, wiping her hands on an apron. Her eyes widened when she saw me, then narrowed as she took in Leaf and Roel, standing there like ethereal bod

