Child of Destiny

Chapter 3-Journey to the Capital

As the child stirred awake, they found themselves greeted by the smiling face of the knight who had been watching over them. Perplexed by the knight's gestures and attempts at communication, the child remained still, unsure of what was expected. Unfazed by the child's confusion, the knight rose to their feet, scooped the child up, and presented them with a book. Puzzled by its purpose, the child's befuddled expression prompted a reassuring smile from the knight. Through a series of mouthed sounds, the child deduced that the book was meant for speech. Attempting to decipher its contents, the child soon realized their inability to comprehend its meaning. Setting the book aside, the child observed the tent, noticing a sword, shelves of books in an unknown language, and a softly glowing necklace.

Shortly thereafter, the knight carried the child outside, where a bustling camp unfolded before their eyes. People conversed and tidied their tents while going about their daily tasks. The knight guided the child to the caped person's tent, where they were placed on the ground while the knight bowed before the regal figure. Words were exchanged between the knight and the caped person, before the knight exited the tent, leaving the child alone with the caped person. Rising from their throne, the caped person crouched before the child, their eyes meeting. With a sense of awe, the child realized they could understand the caped person's words. The caped person introduced themselves as Sigeberht Hathwaye, the 3rd prince of Orestra, and explained that they had been sent to await the arrival of a descendant, which the child was. Curiosity sparked within the child, and they questioned the prince's claim, seeking assurance of his royal status. Laughing, the prince pointed out the signs of his station, from his throne to the opulent surroundings. Urging the child to prepare, the prince revealed their imminent journey back to the capital and summoned the knight.

Outside the tent, the child observed the camp in the process of dismantling, guards mounting their horses, and preparations for the return to the capital underway. Placed upon a horse, the child rode atop it as the knight followed closely behind, issuing commands. After a wait of approximately two hours, the massive tent was dismantled, and the child glimpsed the prince inside a carriage. The guards began their march, opting for a shortcut that brought them closer to the capital. Fatigue settling in, the child sought respite and found solace in slumber atop the horse, surrendering to the soothing rhythms of the journey.

In a world steeped in mystery and wonder, the child's extraordinary odyssey unfolds, teetering on the edge of destiny. With each step, they navigate uncharted realms, unraveling the tapestry of a foreign land intertwined with forgotten histories and enigmatic enigmas. The child embarks on a quest that will test their mettle and resilience, for within the unknown lies both triumph and treachery. Will they conquer the trials that lie ahead, defying the odds stacked against them? Or will they succumb to the perils that lurk beneath the surface, joining the ranks of those who have fallen before? Only time will reveal the child's true path in this riveting tale of resilience, discovery, and the unwavering pursuit of survival.