Chapter 42 Eldhaven
Aloria
The sun rises slowly, casting a golden hue over the world, and I awaken feeling strangely invigorated. The fire’s remnants still smolder, and the scent of woodsmoke hangs in the air. I stretch, feeling the last remnants of my wolf form lingering within me, a thrilling reminder of my newfound power. River’s arms are wrapped around me, his warmth a protective cocoon against the cool morning air.
“Good morning, my Luna,” he murmurs, his voice still husky with sleep. I smile, a flutter of excitement racing through me at the affectionate nickname.
“Good morning,” I reply, my heart racing slightly as I pull away from him, feeling the weight of the day ahead settle on my shoulders. The journey to find my parents looms over me, it feels like both hope and fear swirling in my chest.
After we break our fast with a simple meal of bread and dried fruit, River hands me a long, dark cloak with a hood. “You’ll need this,” he says, his expression serious. “We don’t know who might be searching for you, and I’d rather you stay hidden until we can find out more about your parents.”
I nod, slipping the cloak over my shoulders. The fabric is soft and warm, enveloping me in a feeling of safety. As I pull the hood up, the world around me dims slightly, softening the brightness of the morning. River takes my hand, and together we step away from the campsite, the laughter of Kellan and the others following behind us.
The path we take leads us through the woods, the trees whispering secrets as the leaves rustle in the gentle breeze. I can feel my heart pounding with anticipation, each step bringing us closer to the town that might hold the answers to my questions. What if my parents are still alive? What if we find them? The possibilities are electric, sending sparks of hope coursing through my veins.
As we approach the town, the trees part to reveal a sprawling settlement bustling with life. The buildings are a mixture of stone and timber, their facades adorned with colorful banners and market stalls. The air is filled with the scents of freshly baked bread, spices, and the chatter of townsfolk going about their day.
“This is Eldhaven,” River says, his voice low as he scans the crowd. “It’s larger than I remembered, but it should have the information we need, we will split up to better cover every opportunity .”
I squeeze his hand tighter, my nerves bubbling beneath the surface. “What if someone recognizes me?”
River’s gaze meets mine, filled with unwavering determination. “We’ll be careful. Just stick close to me and keep up the hood.”
We weave through the streets, my heart racing at the sights and sounds around me. Children laugh, chasing each other between stalls, while vendors call out their wares, enticing passersby with their goods. I catch glimpses of colorful fabrics, gleaming jewelry, and tantalizing foods, but my focus sharpens on our mission.
“Let’s start at the tavern,” River suggests, pointing to a lively establishment bustling with patrons. “It’s a good place to gather rumors and information.”
As we step inside, the warmth envelops us, the noise of laughter and chatter washing over me. My eyes dart around as I take in the atmosphere… wooden beams overhead, a crackling hearth, and tables filled with people enjoying their meals.
We approach the bar, where a burly man wipes a tankard clean with a rag. His eyes narrow slightly as he takes in my hooded figure, but River steps forward confidently. “We’re looking for information about the former lycan King and Queen,” he says, his tone firm but respectful.
The bartender’s brow furrows, and he leans closer, lowering his voice. “That’s a sensitive topic. What do you want to know?”
I hold my breath, my heart pounding in my chest. This moment feels monumental, the weight of my past resting heavily on my shoulders.
“We need to know if they’re still alive or if anyone has seen them,” River replies, his grip on my hand tightening, offering silent strength.
The bartender glances around, ensuring no one is listening too closely. “There are whispers,” he begins, his voice low. “Some say they’ve gone into hiding, seeking refuge from those who would do them harm. Others claim to have seen them near the old ruins to the east, but it’s just talk… no one knows for certain.”
My heart races at the mention of the ruins. “Do you know how to get there?” I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.
He nods, his eyes darting back to the patrons. “Follow the path past the old mill. It’ll lead you right to the ruins. But be careful; it’s a treacherous area, and not all who go searching return.”
I feel a surge of determination. “Thank you,” I say, my voice steady. “We’ll be cautious.”
As River and I step away from the bar, I can feel the weight of the town upon my shoulders, but a spark of hope ignites within me. “We have a lead,” I say, my voice brimming with excitement.
River looks at me, his eyes shining with pride. “And we won’t stop until we find them.”
Together, we leave the tavern, the bustling town fading behind us as we head toward the path that will lead us to the unknown. My heart races with the thrill of adventure, the promise of discovery, and the hope of family. I am excited to hear if any of the others have any news.
As we step into the sunlight, I can’t help but smile beneath my hood, exhilaration coursing through me. I am ready to face whatever lies ahead. My parents await, and I will find them.