...As Enel voiced his question, the castle itself responded.
The ever-shifting golden walls rippled, and from within them, an image began to take form—
A girlish face, delicate and mischievous, like that of a young elf, emerged within the flowing gold as if playing upon the surface of a living mural.
A voice, smooth and amused, rang out:
"You have arrived at Beit HaYa'ar Levanon (בית היער לבנון)."
Enel, well-versed in countless languages, instantly understood.
"The House of the Forest of Lebanon," he muttered under his breath, his voice laced with both awe and wariness.
There was no doubt.
This was the legendary and mysterious palace of King Solomon.
The castle, as if sensing his amazement, preened under his gaze, its walls subtly shimmering as though basking in his admiration.
It enjoyed the look in his eyes.
Then, with a playful lilt, it teased:
"If you truly wish to enter this magnificent palace, you must bow nine times—once for each star upon my crown."
