Light the Way

CHAPTER 9. under the starry sky

SAMIRA

Samira's days in the castle often felt long and uneventful. The grandeur of the Hightower surrounded her, yet its towering walls held little excitement for a young girl with a spirit eager for exploration. On this particular day, boredom gnawed at her, prompting Samira to seek a reprieve from the confines of Hightower.

With a hopeful glimmer in her eyes, Samira approached her mother, Lady Rhonda, who was engrossed in correspondence at her ornate desk. "Mother, may we take a walk through Oldtown? It is such a lovely day, and I wish to see the bustling streets and colourful markets."

Rhonda, adorned in the intricate garments befitting her station, glanced up from her work. Her expression softened at the sight of her daughter's eager anticipation. "Samira, my darling, I'm afraid I have pressing matters to attend to at the moment. Perhaps later?"

Samira's shoulders slumped, disappointment etching her features. She knew her mother held responsibilities befitting the Lady of Hightower, yet the yearning for a simple stroll through the vibrant city outside beckoned.

"Can't I go alone, Mother? I promise I'll stay within sight of the guards," Samira pleaded, her gaze hopeful.

Rhonda sighed. "I understand your desire, my sweet, but Oldtown can be a bustling and unpredictable place. It's not safe for you to venture alone. I wouldn't want anything untoward to befall you."

Samira's disappointment deepened, but she nodded, understanding the validity of her mother's concern. "Very well, Mother. Perhaps another time."

With a gentle smile, Rhonda reached out to caress her daughter's cheek. "I promise, we'll find a moment to explore Oldtown together. But for now, indulge me in a bit of patience, my love. Duty calls."

While strolling through the gardens Samira noticed the absence of the usual guards stationed around the Hightower's garden. She saw it as an opportunity to venture beyond the fortress-like walls and explore the colourful tapestry of Oldtown on her own. A spark of excitement ignited in her.

With deliberate stealth, Samira quickly made her way to her chambers, where she carefully removed the ornate jewellery and expensive adornments that marked her as a member of House Hightower. She opted for simpler attire, donning a modest dress and a hooded cape that concealed her distinctive features. In the cloak's shadow, she felt newfound anonymity, a liberation from the expectations that came with her noble status.

As she stepped into the bustling streets of Oldtown, Samira marvelled at the vibrancy that surrounded her. The marketplaces were alive with the hum of commerce, merchants peddling their waves, and the aroma of various cuisines wafting through the air. The smallfolk moved about, their daily lives unfolding in the heart of the city.

Samira wandered through the crowded thoroughfares, her heart alive with the thrill of anonymity. She listened to the melodic banter of street vendors, observed children playing games, and marvelled at the skilled artisans showcasing their crafts. The rhythmic pulse of Oldtown, often distant within the towering walls of Hightower, now enveloped her in its lively embrace.

In the midst of the crowd, Samira revelled in the freedom to be just another face in the crowd. Her steps carried her through narrow alleys and bustling squares, absorbing the sights and sounds of a world previously glimpsed only from the lofty heights of her family's seat.

As she strolled through the lively market square, Samira's senses were enticed by the vibrant array of stalls. The tantalising aroma of exotic spices mingled with the earthy fragrance of fresh produce, creating a sensory symphony that enveloped her. It was then she caught sight of a colourful fruit stand adorned with an assortment of succulent fruits.