The week after the ball passed swiftly, and now, on the eve of her departure, Khione found herself staring at the packed trunks in her room. Every piece of clothing, every necessity had been carefully chosen for the journey ahead. She had gone over her belongings multiple times, ensuring she had forgotten nothing. Tomorrow, at dawn, she would set sail for the Isles of Azeroth with Bella Wright. The thought filled her with anticipation, but also a hint of nervousness. This would be her first time traveling so far from home.
A soft knock at the door pulled her from her thoughts.
"Lady Khione," a maid's voice called gently. "Dinner is ready."
Khione took a deep breath and made her way to the dining hall. When she arrived, her family was already seated. Selene sat to her right, Cedric to her left, and their parents at the head of the table. The warm glow of candlelight flickered over the elegant dishes, but tonight, the atmosphere felt different—quieter, heavier.
"So, are you excited?" Cedric was the first to break the silence, glancing at her as he took a sip of his wine.
Khione nodded. "I am. But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little nervous."
Selene smirked. "That's natural. You're about to travel to a place none of us have ever been. It would be odd if you weren't feeling anything at all."
Duchess Briston gave her daughter a reassuring look. "You'll do just fine, Khione. Just remember everything you've learned and be mindful of your surroundings."
"You won't have us there to keep an eye on you," Cedric added, his tone playful but his eyes serious.
Khione rolled her eyes. "I can handle myself."
Lorian, who had been mostly silent until now, placed his fork down and leaned forward. "I have no doubt you can. But the Isles are unfamiliar territory. You must be careful of who you trust and always be aware of what is happening around you. This mission may seem simple on the surface, but diplomacy is never without risk."
Khione met her father's gaze and nodded firmly. "I understand."
For the rest of dinner, they discussed smaller details—what ship she would be taking and the expected duration of the journey. By the time the meal ended, Khione felt the weight of her departure settle in more than ever.
That night, she went to bed early, knowing she would need all the rest she could get before the long voyage.
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A knock on her door woke her.
"Lady Khione, it is eight o'clock," the maid informed her.
Khione sat up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. The day had arrived.
She dressed swiftly, donning a travel-friendly outfit that allowed for both comfort and ease of movement. As she stepped out of her room, she took one last glance at her surroundings. The estate she had spent her entire life in. The thought that she wouldn't see it for weeks, maybe even months, left an odd feeling in her chest.
Breakfast was a brief affair. Her family was gathered once more, though this time, the conversation was quieter, more subdued.
"You'll write, won't you?" Elara asked as she placed a small piece of fruit on her plate.
Khione nodded. "Of course."
"Don't just write to Mother," Cedric interjected. "You should send a letter to Selene and me as well. I want to know what kind of people inhabit the Isles."
Selene smirked. "I'm more interested in hearing about any fights that might break out. Do you think they fight like we do here?"
Khione sighed. "I'll make sure to write about everything."
Lorian set his cup down. "There is no need to rush through your meal. You still have time before you must leave for the docks."
Even so, Khione found herself eating quickly. There was an eagerness inside her now—a mix of excitement and nerves. Once she finished, she stood up and looked at her family. "I suppose this is it."
Elara rose first and embraced her daughter. "Be safe, Khione. And remember, you always have a home here."
Cedric ruffled her hair. "Try not to scare the islanders too much."
Selene simply patted her shoulder. "Come back stronger."
Khione gave a small smile. "I will."
With that, she turned and made her way outside, where a carriage was waiting to take her and her father to the Imperial Docks. Khione waved at her family as they departed towards the docks.
It wasn't long until they had arrived at the docks.
The docks were bustling with activity. Sailors moved about, securing supplies and making final preparations. The ship that would take them to the Isles was a grand vessel, its white sails billowing in the breeze. It bore the imperial crest, signifying its diplomatic mission.
Bella Wright stood at the base of the ramp leading onto the ship. Dressed in her uniform, the vice-captain of the Imperial Sentinels exuded authority and strength. Her dark auburn hair was tied back in a neat braid, and her sword was strapped securely to her waist. She turned as Khione and Lorian approached.
"You're right on time," Bella noted.
Khione handed her luggage to the sailors who came forward to collect it. Bella crossed her arms. "Are you ready for this, Lady Khione?"
Khione exhaled and nodded. "Yes, I am."
Bella gave a satisfied nod. "Good. Then let's get moving."
Khione turned to her father, suddenly aware that this was truly goodbye—for now, at least.
Lorian studied her for a moment before speaking. "We will miss you, Khione. But I have no doubt that you will handle yourself well in the Isles. Remember who you are. Remember that you are a Briston."
Khione straightened her back. "I won't forget."
Lorian's lips quirked slightly, a rare, almost-smile. He placed a hand on her shoulder one last time before stepping back. "Then go. And make the most of this opportunity."
Khione stepped onto the ship, Bella following beside her. As the ship's crew prepared to set sail, she moved toward the railing, looking back at the docks where her father still stood.
As the ship began to drift away from the shore, she raised a hand in farewell. Lorian inclined his head in response.
The wind picked up, filling the sails. The docks of the Asterios Empire grew smaller in the distance. Khione took a deep breath, turning her gaze toward the horizon. The Isles of Azeroth awaited.