In an open city where the main street is surrounded by the crisp, salty wind of autumn, the air was cool and invigorating throughout the entire city.
Kai emerged from the guild office, finally able to see the city that his sisters had described. As he took in the sight before him, he couldn't help but agree with their praises. The city truly was beautiful and famous among the nobles.
"Right! This place really is as beautiful as my sisters said," Kai thought to himself, a sense of awe and appreciation filling his heart. His gaze shifted towards the line of nobles, from those of greater lineage to those of lesser lineage, who were making their way through the bustling streets.
"The annual festival here sure is popular among the people of this kingdom," remarked Eliana, his sister, who seemed to be drawing a lot of attention from all the boys and men in the area.
Despite the attention, she appeared excited and eager to partake in the festivities. Kai nodded, sharing her enthusiasm.
"Yes, dear sister, it is my first time at this festival as well. And our other sisters will be joining us in a few days, so we can all enjoy it together," Kai replied, his spirits lifted by Eliana's cherry mood. They started walking towards their awaiting carriage, ready to embark on an adventure-filled day.
As they made their way through the bustling streets, merchants displayed their wares in vibrant stalls, enticing passersby with their enchanting displays. Swords and staffs adorned with intricate carvings, shimmering with the essence of magic, caught Kai's eye. He stopped at one particular vendor's stall, examining a finely crafted sword.
"This sword, my lord, is imbued with the power of fire," the vendor exclaimed, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "It is said that it can unleash devastating flames upon your enemies. A true weapon for a noble warrior like yourself."
Kai listened intently, his curiosity piqued. "And how much does this magnificent blade cost?" he inquired, his gaze fixed on the weapon.
The vendor stroked his beard, a sly smile playing on his lips. "For a noble such as yourself, my lord, I can offer it at a special price of 500 gold coins. A true steal for a weapon of such caliber!"
Kai's eyebrows raised at the price. It was a substantial amount, but the allure of the weapon's power was undeniable. He considered his options, aware of the need for strength in the world of sword and magic that surrounded him. As he deliberated, Eliana's attention was caught by a stall selling intricately woven cloaks and amulets.
"Brother, look at these beautiful amulets," she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight. "The vendor says they offer protection and luck to the wearer. Perhaps one would bring us fortune in our endeavors."
Kai turned his attention to the amulets, marveling at their craftsmanship. The vendor, sensing their interest, approached them with a smile. "These amulets, my dear sir and lady, are imbued with ancient enchantments. They offer not only protection but also the blessings of fortune and prosperity. Only 200 gold coins for a token of luck."
Kai and Eliana exchanged glances, their excitement mounting. They knew the value of well-crafted weapons and enchanted accessories in a world where sword and magic reigned supreme. Their determination to carve their own path grew stronger with each passing moment.
As they continued their exploration of the festival, their minds filled with possibilities, the vibrant chatter of the crowd enveloped them. Conversations intertwined with the clinking of gold coins, as merchants negotiated prices and customers bartered for the best deals.
"Have you seen the legendary blade being sold by Master Gideon? They say it was forged by a dragon's fire," whispered one excited onlooker to another.
"I heard it costs a small fortune, but imagine the power it would grant its wielder," came the hushed reply, filled with awe.
As they reached the carriage, the head butler from their mansion appeared in front of it, courteously opening the gate and inviting them to enter. With a smile on their faces, Kai and Eliana thanked the butler, Ji, and took their seats. Kai positioned himself in front of Eliana, gazing out the window as the carriage began to move.
The sight of the carriage caught the attention of the city's residents. They were aware that their beloved princess was having a birthday party, and the presence of nobles from various kingdoms only added to the excitement. The residents, primarily merchants, saw this as a golden opportunity to expand their businesses not only within the kingdom but also beyond its borders.
"That carriage looks like it belongs to that small lord, but why does it feel like we know the silver-haired princess and the boy accompanying her?" whispered one curious onlooker to another.
"Hush! That should be Lord Kai. Though his family was once at the top of the aristocratic family Silverwing, he has been disowned and reduced to a baron of a small town," came the sneering reply. The other merchants, having overheard the conversation, decided to keep their distance and focus on their own work. A silver-tongued man, spreading rumors around the area, took the opportunity to belittle Kai. "Such easy money to earn, but that brat doesn't seem the least bit dissatisfied. Is he truly the same person our intelligence has gathered information on?"
Kai, having been informed of the rumors and gossip, remained unfazed. He chose to ignore the men and wore a smile that gave the impression he was watching a circus performance. The merchants, overhearing Kai's inner thoughts, couldn't help but feel a mix of annoyance and surprise at his composed demeanor.
"Those brats are truly idiots, wasting their money on people to defame me," Eliana heard Kai's thoughts and couldn't help but feel a surge of concern for her brother. Observing his calm and collected response to the situation, admiration began to bloom in her heart.
"You're right, brother. They're just plain idiots. Don't let them bother you. Ignore them for now," she encouraged him, determined to support him in any way she could.
Eliana's unwavering positivity was a testament to her resilience, despite the difficulties she had faced at such a young age. Deep down, she held onto the belief that their parents would one day return, keeping hope alive in her heart. This unwavering faith not only fueled her own outlook but also served as a guiding light for Kai.
The carriage continued its journey through the bustling streets of Seavale, drawing curious glances from onlookers.
Unbeknownst to them, within the medieval-inspired city by the seaside, Kai and Eliana navigated a world brimming with history, bustling merchants, and whispered gossip.
They were determined to rise above the rumors and challenges, facing them head-on with unwavering determination and a bond that could not be broken.
As the city of Seavale unfolded before them, its medieval charm mingling with the vibrant energy of the festival, Kai and Eliana prepared themselves for the days ahead.
Their hearts filled with a mixture of excitement, determination, and a shared resolve to carve their own path amidst the intricate tapestry of middle-age Europe-inspired splendor that surrounded them.
"My lord we are already there..." It was then the butler spoke out loud to inform Kai and Eliana, who were watching the city surrounding with great interest through the interior of the carriage, as they had change in expression and Eliana silently came to look at Kai up close and wiped off the little sweat from his face, with a little smile on her face, "hmm! That alright, now..."
While Kai mouth twitch as he thought inside his heart, "Who is the real bigger sibling among us," as he looked at smiling Eli and did not had heart to say it out on her.