Chapter 52 Back to the city
River
I watch Aloria and her mother share a moment that feels almost sacred, their connection a tapestry of love woven through years of separation. It fills me with a sense of warmth and hope. As they exchange smiles and laughter, I can’t help but wonder how much strength Aloria possesses, even if she doesn’t yet fully realize it.
“Alright, everyone,” I say, clapping my hands together to draw their attention. “If we’re going to reclaim the kingdom, we need to get moving. Our destiny isn’t going to wait for us to finish packing.”
Aloria’s father nods in agreement. “You’re right, River. And you said that we need to gather your Beta Kellan and the others in Eldhaven, right?”
“Yeah, they are probably getting worried that we haven’t returned yet.” I say.
As we finish packing the last of our supplies into the small wagon, I can see Aloria’s brothers, Arly and Arthenon, bouncing with energy, their excitement palpable. The thought of going into Eldhaven… the bustling city with its towering stone walls and lively marketplace… is enough to make their eyes sparkle like stars. I can’t help but chuckle at their enthusiasm; it reminds me of my own childhood, of simpler days before responsibility weighed heavily on my shoulders.
“Ready to go, boys?” I ask, grinning at them.
“Yes!” Arly shouts, his dark hair flying in the wind as he runs a few paces ahead of us, while Arthenon struggles to keep up, his small legs moving with determination.
“Slow down, Arly! You’re going to scare the poor donkey,” Aloria calls, laughter in her voice as she watches her brother dash ahead.
The donkey, a scruffy creature with a stubborn streak, brays loudly as if in protest. I can’t blame him; he’s stuck pulling a wagon filled with all sorts of knickknacks and supplies that Aloria’s family seems to have amassed over the years. I step up to the wagon, adjusting the straps as I take the lead. The weight of our supplies is manageable, but I know that the journey ahead will test our endurance.
“Let’s go,” I shout, and with a gentle nudge to the donkey, we’re off, the forest path stretching before us.
The trees loom around us, their branches swaying in the gentle breeze, casting playful shadows on the ground. Aloria walks next to me, her presence a soothing balm amidst the thrill of the adventure. “Do you think Kellan will be ready?” she asks, her voice a blend of concern and excitement.
“Absolutely,” I reply, glancing sideways at her. “And knowing him he might have gathered some information about the king and other stuff we can use in our quest.”
As we make our way through the forest, I can hear the sounds of nature awakening around us… birds chirping, leaves rustling, and faint sounds of water running nearby. It feels like the world is alive with possibility, mirroring the excitement that bubbles within me.
“Is it true what they say about Eldhaven?” Arthenon pipes up from behind us, his eyes wide with curiosity. “Is it really as big as they say?”
“Oh, it’s bigger,” I assure him, my voice enthusiastic. “The streets are filled with merchants selling all kinds of goods, and you can hear the laughter of children playing. It’s a place where dreams can come true.”
“Will there be warriors?” Arly asks, stepping in closer to me, his eyes sparkling with wonder. “I want to be a brave warrior.. Just like you, River.”
I can feel a swell of pride at his words. “You will be a warrior one day, Arly. And when the time comes, you’ll fight for our people with bravery and honor.”
The brothers exchange excited glances, their imaginations running wild with thoughts of valor and adventure. Aloria watches them with an affectionate smile, her heart clearly lightened by their enthusiasm. For a moment, I can see the weight of the world lifted from her shoulders as she steps into her role as both sister and protector.
As we approach the edge of the forest, the trees begin to thin out, and I can hear the distant sounds of the bustling city. The air shifts, carrying with it the scents of fresh bread and roasted meats, mingling with the earthiness of the forest. I can feel my heart quicken in anticipation.
“There it is,” Aloria exclaims, pointing ahead to the distant walls of Eldhaven, rising majestically against the backdrop of the setting sun. The sun’s rays catch the stone, casting a golden hue that makes the city shimmer like a jewel.
With a collective cheer from the kids, the excitement in the air grows, and even the donkey seems to pick up its pace, eager to reach the city. As we draw closer, I can see the marketplace bustling with activity. Merchants shout their wares, children dart between stalls, and the laughter of familiar faces fills the streets.
“Remember, we need to find Kellan first,” I remind them as I guide the donkey through the main entrance, the grand arched gates of Eldhaven swinging open to welcome us back.
Aloria’s gaze sweeps over the city, taking in the exiting sights. “It feels totally different than the last time,” she murmurs, a hint of wonder in her voice.
“It’s time to make new memories,” I reply, nudging the donkey forward. “And this time, we’ll do it together.”
As we weave through the crowds, I keep an eye out for Kellan, my beta, and the two young warriors we left behind. I can feel the anticipation building within me. The journey ahead won’t be easy, but with Aloria’s family by our side, I believe we can reclaim not just the kingdom for her parents, but a future filled with hope.