As they set off down the dusty path leading away from the village, Kieran couldn't shake the feeling that his life was about to become even more complicated. Somewhere out there, he knew, was a world full of magic, monsters, and intrigue. But for now, all he could think about was how to keep Fredrick from accidentally starting a broom-based religion.
The journey to Avrenport began at dawn, the rising sun casting long shadows over the Mistwood. Fredrick marched at the front, his glowing broom slung across his back like a treasured sword. His boyish enthusiasm was matched only by Meliora\u2019s royal composure, her movements graceful despite the uneven terrain. Behind them, Kieran trudged with the air of a man resigned to his fate, muttering under his breath about the absurdity of it all.
The path was rough, winding through dense thickets and shallow streams. The air was alive with the sounds of chirping insects and rustling leaves, but it was far from peaceful. Fredrick was constantly on edge, his head snapping toward every noise, while Meliora occasionally jotted notes on a small parchment, her quill scratching with relentless determination.
Kieran broke the silence. "Do you really need to write down every rock we pass?"
"It's not every rock, Master," Meliora replied without looking up. "It's the significant ones. Like that one shaped like a dragon's claw."
Kieran glanced at the rock in question. It looked like... a rock. "And what exactly makes it significant?"
Meliora gave him a serene smile. "Inspiration, Master. A chronicler must document all moments of significance for future generations."
"Future generations are going to think we were lunatics," Kieran muttered.
Fredrick chuckled. "Master, you're far too modest. Your wisdom inspires us all."
Kieran sighed. "This 'wisdom' is going to get me killed."
As they continued, the forest began to thin, revealing rolling hills and distant farmland. The outskirts of Avrenport came into view by midday, the sprawl of a bustling trade city surrounded by high stone walls and peppered with colorful banners flapping in the wind.
Fredrick's eyes widened. "It's magnificent! Look at the size of those gates."
"Big gates," Kieran said flatly. "How thrilling."
Meliora ignored him, her gaze fixed on the city. "Avrenport is known as the Gateway to the Frontier. Its Adventurers' Guild is one of the most renowned in the kingdom. They say only the best are accepted there."
"Great," Kieran muttered. "Let's hope they have room for a sage who specializes in broom combat and life advice."
The gates of Avrenport were crowded with merchants, adventurers, and travelers of all kinds. Guards in gleaming armor stood watch, their expressions bored but alert. As Kieran's group approached, the guards stiffened, their eyes locking onto Meliora.
"Halt," one of them said, stepping forward. "State your business."
Meliora pulled back her hood, revealing her unmistakable royal features. The guard's eyes widened, and he dropped to one knee.
"Your Highness," he said quickly. "We weren't expecting a royal visit."
"Rise," Meliora said with a polite nod. "We are here on personal business. I trust you will keep my presence discreet."
The guard stood, glancing at Kieran and Fredrick. "Of course, Your Highness. Are these your retainers?"
Kieran opened his mouth to object, but Meliora answered first. "They are my companions."
The guard's gaze lingered on Kieran, clearly skeptical, but he stepped aside. "Welcome to Avrenport, Your Highness. Please let us know if you require assistance."
As they passed through the gates, Kieran leaned toward Meliora. "You could've mentioned the whole 'third princess' thing before now."
"I didn't think it necessary," she replied with a faint smile. "Besides, it worked to our advantage."
Fredrick nodded. "Her Highness's presence lends credibility to our mission."
"Credibility," Kieran repeated. "Sure. That's what we needed."
+
Avrenport's streets were alive with activity. Vendors shouted their wares, adventurers in mismatched armor argued over maps, and the smells of roasted meat and fresh bread filled the air. Fredrick was wide-eyed, taking in the sights and sounds with the excitement of a child, while Meliora moved with practiced grace, her demeanor calm but observant.
Kieran, on the other hand, was overwhelmed. The sheer chaos of the city was a stark contrast to the quiet of Greystone, and he found himself dodging carts and weaving through crowds with increasing frustration.
"So," he said, trying to keep up with Meliora's brisk pace. "What's the plan? Are we just wandering until something interesting happens?"
Meliora stopped in front of a large building adorned with an intricately carved sign that read Adventurers' Guild. "This is where we begin."
Fredrick grinned. "The guild! I've always dreamed of joining."
Kieran raised an eyebrow. "And what exactly are you going to tell them? That you've mastered the ancient art of broom combat?"
Fredrick's grin faltered. "Well, when you put it like that…"
Meliora placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Do not underestimate yourself, Fredrick. You've already proven your strength and courage. That alone will set you apart."
Kieran groaned. "Great. Let's just get this over with."