Chapter - 43
The following morning, as the first rays of sunlight broke over Ironhelm, Jacob and Elara found themselves at a stable near the city's southern edge. The earthy scent of straw and the low, steady murmurs of the stable workers surrounded them as they finalized arrangements for their rented horses. Jacob had chosen two sturdy, well-kept mares—one a sleek black with a white star on her forehead, the other a soft chestnut with a gentle temperament. Elara patted the chestnut mare's neck, a sparkle of anticipation in her eyes.
"I think we're set," Jacob said, climbing onto his horse, as Elara climbed upon hers. He had a map neatly folded and tucked in his saddlebag and had a quick chat with Thorne over breakfast for final guidance on the path to Ashenford.
As they rode out of Ironhelm, leaving behind the sturdy walls and crowded streets, Elara's enthusiasm overflowed. She barely let a minute pass in silence.
"I still can't believe it, Jacob! I'm really going back to Ashenford. Do you think much has changed? Do you think the fields are still there, or the old well by the town center?" she asked, her eyes lighting up at each memory that surfaced. "And my mother… I wonder if she'll even recognize me! It's been so many years."
Jacob wore a rueful smile as he listened, nodding to her questions and smiling at her memories. He'd rarely seen her so open and animated, and though he wasn't the type to chatter much, he enjoyed every moment of hearing her voice spill over with joy and hope.
"Five years isn't that long a time, so I'm sure they'll recognize you. You've grown stronger and brighter, Elara. You'll fit right back in," Jacob said
They journeyed steadily over the next few days, each day bringing them deeper into the rolling hills and forested paths that bordered the eastern region.
A few days into the journey, the sun dipped below the horizon as they made camp under a grove of ancient oaks. Jacob set about making a fire while Elara pitched their small tents, and soon the scent of their modest rations filled the cool night air.
After eating dinner, Jacob went over to adjust the horses' reins where they were tied. Elara observed him, a thoughtful look crossing her face.
"You know, you're so natural with the horses," she noted, a hint of admiration in her voice. "You handle them like you've done this all your life."
Jacob looked up. "Well, I...," he paused, before continuing. "Horses are remarkable animals—they respond to kindness, loyalty, and patience. If you understand them, they'll understand you. They can be a man's best friend, right alongside a loyal dog."
Elara smiled, watching him with renewed curiosity. "It sounds like you really care about them," she murmured. "I think they sense it, too. These two horses already seem to trust you completely."
Jacob nodded. "Animals are perceptive, especially horses. They're intuitive. They know when someone cares." He glanced at Elara and added, "And in return, they'll carry you anywhere, even into danger, without a second thought."
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The two continued their journey the next morning. For the next few days, they traveled in easy companionship, the landscape shifting from grassy meadows to forests and quiet, sleepy villages. The days passed in relative peace; aside from the occasional traveler or merchant, they encountered no dangers along the well-traveled route.
On the sixth day since they'd left Ironhelm, the landscape began to change. Elara seemed to recognize the scenery, her eyes darting from one familiar landmark to another.
As they crested a small hill, a collection of humble cottages and thatched roofs came into view, framed by the distant outline of green fields and grazing cattle. A narrow dirt road, lined with fences and wild hedges, led them into the heart of the village.
Elara's face broke into a wide smile, her eyes bright with emotion. "Jacob… this is it. Ashenford."
They rode in quietly. The cottages were small and sturdy, with smoke rising from chimneys and children playing in the dusty roads. Villagers went about their tasks, tending to animals, mending roofs, and exchanging curious looks as they spotted the newcomers.