The sun peeked over the horizon, casting golden rays across the fields of Elaren. Dew clung to the grass like scattered crystals, and birds filled the air with songs of morning. The road to the capital stretched ahead—winding, open, and full of promise.
Aeron Nightveil stood near the back of the carriage, eyes wide and shimmering with excitement. His small hands gripped the wooden railing as he leaned forward, trying to take in every detail of the journey. His heart beat a little faster than usual—not out of fear, but curiosity.
> "We're really going to Caelgard…"
"The heart of Caeloria."
It wasn't just any journey. It was his first time leaving the village. And to a place he'd only heard about in bedtime stories and overheard conversations.
The reason was simple: his father had business with a merchant guild tied to the capital's trade council. It was a rare opportunity—one that required the whole family to travel together. Lyra was thrilled. Their mother was a little nervous. But Aeron? He was glowing inside.
—
The road passed through stretches of emerald woods and rolling hills. Horses trotted at a steady pace, their hooves thudding rhythmically against the dirt. Occasionally, a breeze would rustle the leaves overhead, and Aeron would close his eyes, feeling the mana drift with the wind.
He was more aware of it now—more in tune. It pulsed gently within him like a second heartbeat, but he kept it quiet, hidden. This trip wasn't about power.
It was about the world.
And he wanted to see all of it.
—
By midday, the family paused near a riverbank shaded by willows. Lyra dipped her toes into the cool water and splashed at Aeron, who dodged with a laugh.
"You've got no aim," he teased, sticking his tongue out.
"Says the boy who tripped on his own boot earlier," Lyra shot back with a grin.
Their parents sat nearby, sharing bread and dried fruit. The moment felt peaceful. Untouched.
Aeron took out a small parchment and charcoal piece—his recent hobby. He began sketching the river, trying to capture the movement of water and the glitter of sunlight.
He didn't realize he was humming an old tune until Lyra joined in.
—
That night, they made camp beside an open meadow. A traveling merchant caravan had also stopped nearby, their lanterns glowing like floating stars. One of the merchants—a cheerful older man with a beard that looked like tangled clouds—offered them warm stew and stories.
"The capital's more than gold and politics, lad," he told Aeron. "It's alive. It breathes. You'll see."
Aeron listened, wide-eyed, hanging onto every word.
Later, as the fire crackled and Lyra dozed beside their mother, Aeron wandered a few paces away. He crouched beside a bush where a tiny bird struggled—its wing injured.
He glanced back. No one was watching.
> Just a little mana…
He focused. Called on the threads.
They came, subtle and smooth. He guided them into a faint glow that covered the bird's wing. It chirped once, then settled. A moment later, it flapped both wings and fluttered into the air.
Aeron smiled.
He didn't need thanks.
He just needed to know he could help.
—
The next day, they passed through bustling towns where colorful stalls lined the streets. Aeron marveled at the painted masks, strange instruments, and fruits he'd never seen before. Lyra tried on a feathered hat, pretending to be a noble lady.
At one point, Aeron tugged on his father's sleeve. "Are all the buildings in the capital this big?"
His father laughed. "No, son. Those are nothing compared to what you'll see in Caelgard."
Aeron's eyes lit up.
> "I can't wait…"
—
On the fourth morning, the sky was clear and blue as polished glass. The road narrowed between two rising hills. Birds flew ahead, and for a moment, the family rode in silence.
Then they crested the hill.
And there it was.
The capital of the human realm.
Its walls rose like mountains—tall and proud, etched with runes and guarded by gleaming towers. Banners flew atop stone battlements. The outer districts stretched outward like vines from a core of silver and stone.
Aeron stood, stunned. Breath caught in his chest.
> "So this is the heart of a kingdom…"
Excitement surged through him. So much to explore. So much to learn.
—
Chapter 13 End