Morning came with a golden hue spilling over Wrenford. The birds sang louder than usual, and the villagers moved about with purpose. The entire village buzzed with gentle excitement—not just for another market day, but because Caelia Rynn was leaving. She was healthy, whole, and determined to carve a new fate. Word had spread quickly, as it always did in small villages, and neighbors waved at her cottage with fond smiles and misty eyes.
Inside her modest home, Caelia packed a small satchel with the few belongings she had—simple dresses, herbs Mira's mother had given her, and a folded parchment Mira had once written her. She tied her hair back, took one long look around her hut, then stepped outside to the light of a new beginning.
She made her way to Mira's house, where the smell of freshly baked flatbread and roasted roots wafted through the air. It felt like home, more than any place had ever felt. Mira and her parents were already seated for breakfast, and Mira's eyes lit up the moment she saw her.
"You didn't think you'd leave without eating first, did you?" Mira grinned, waving her over.
"Never," Caelia smiled, taking her usual spot.
The table was lively. Mira's father gave quiet advice between bites, while Mira's mother packed dried fruits and wrapped bread in cloth for their journey.
But then, Mira cleared her throat and looked at her mother. "I can't let Caelia go to Arkenhall alone. Not after what she's been through. I'm going with her."
Caelia turned to her in shock. "Mira, no—"
"Yes," Mira interrupted, unwavering. "You might think you're strong enough now, and maybe you are. But this is a long journey. You're not going alone."
Mira's mother gave her a long look, then nodded slowly. "Alright. But you write to me the moment you get there. Both of you. And stick together."
Caelia felt tears prick her eyes. "Thank you. For everything."
After breakfast, the two girls walked together to the village square, where the large transport wagon awaited. It was already half-full with traders, a few travelers, and goods bound for Arkenhall. The wooden wheels creaked, and horses snorted impatiently, ready for the road ahead.
The villagers had gathered once more to send them off. Hugs were exchanged, and Mira's mother pulled Caelia into a long embrace, whispering a prayer of protection into her ear. The moment was bittersweet, heavy with hope and the quiet fear of the unknown.
They climbed into the wagon, Mira's hand never leaving Caelia's. As the driver shouted, "To Arkenhall!" and the horses began to move, Wrenford slowly faded into the distance. Caelia didn't look back.
The journey to the capital was long. They passed through green meadows, deep woods, and rolling hills that shimmered under the morning sun. It wasn't until late afternoon that Arkenhall came into view—and when it did, Caelia's breath caught in her throat.
Arkenhall.
The heart of Karethia. The jewel of the realm.
Nestled in a vast valley with silver rivers curling around its stone walls like ribbons, Arkenhall gleamed in the sunlight. Its towers stretched toward the sky, capped in blue and gold, their tips glittering like stars. Grand white spires rose above the marble buildings, and domed roofs shimmered under the afternoon light. Flags bearing the royal crest fluttered proudly on every gate, and the city buzzed like a hive—full of life, color, and motion.
Merchants cried out their wares from ornate stalls, nobles in rich silks rode by in elegant carriages, and children darted through the crowd with laughter on their lips. The air smelled of sweet pastries, roasted meats, and fine incense. Music floated through the streets—flutes, harps, and distant drums echoing through the city's stone pathways.
Caelia had seen Arkenhall before, in her previous life—but never like this. Not with eyes wide open and a soul ready to fight fate. This time, it was all new. And overwhelming. And beautiful.
Mira leaned in, whispering, "Welcome to the capital."
Caelia gripped the edge of the wagon, her heart thudding like a drum.
This was where everything changed.
This was where her new story began.