The road to becoming an adventurer

Chapter 8 : On the road Again

Arina and Fredric spent the day on the ferry, the gentle rocking of the boat a constant rhythm beneath their feet. Fredric was mesmerized by the vast expanse of the sea. The sun reflected off the water's surface, creating a dazzling display of light that danced with the waves. Seagulls called out overhead, their cries mingling with the creaking of the ship and the distant chatter of the crew.

"This is incredible," Fredric said, leaning over the railing, his eyes wide with wonder. "I've never seen anything like it."

Arina chuckled, shaking her head. "You've really never been at sea before, have you? It's just water, Fredric."

Fredric turned to her, a grin on his face. "It's more than just water! It's the adventure, the unknown. It's everything I've dreamed of."

Arina smirked, a teasing glint in her eye. "You're like a child seeing snow for the first time."

Fredric laughed, unbothered by her teasing. "Maybe I am. But it's amazing all the same."

As the day wore on, the distant outline of the Northern Island of Eeogebin grew clearer, its rugged coastline coming into view. Fredric watched as the details sharpened: towering cliffs, dense forests, and the quaint buildings of the port town of Anathyr nestled against the shore.

The ferry docked, and Fredric's excitement was palpable. He bounced on the balls of his feet, eager to disembark and explore this new place. Arina, more composed, gathered their belongings and led the way down the gangplank.

"Welcome to Anathyr," she said. "Try not to get lost in your amazement."

Fredric just grinned, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling port. Sailors unloaded crates of goods, merchants hawked their wares, and the townsfolk moved with purpose.

Fredric noted with awe how the towns seemed to grow larger and more bustling with each step of their journey. "These towns are getting bigger and bigger," he remarked, looking around at the busy streets of Anathyr.

Arina nodded, her eyes scanning the crowd. "The closer we get to the capital, the more populated the countryside becomes. There's a greater abundance of business and opportunities here."

They didn't waste much time in Anathyr. Arina was eager to make up for the three days they had spent at the festival in Salthorn. "We need to keep moving," she said firmly. "We can't afford any more delays."

Fredric followed her lead, quickly gathering their belongings. As they moved through the town, he couldn't help but notice the bag Arina carried at her waist. The ancient crown within emitted a faint, almost ethereal glow that shimmered through the flaps of the bag. It was a constant reminder of their mission and the importance of their journey.

The countryside was a stark contrast to the bustling port town. Rolling hills and open fields stretched out before them, dotted with small farms and the occasional village. The road ahead was long, but the scenery was beautiful, filled with the vibrant colours of nature in full bloom.

Fredric kept pace with Arina, his thoughts drifting back to their brief respite at the festival. Despite the urgency of their mission, he found himself missing the laughter and music of the celebration. But he knew there was no turning back now. They had a job to do, and every step brought them closer to their destination.

Arina, ever vigilant, kept her eyes on the path ahead. The ancient crown felt heavier at her side, its glow a constant reminder of the responsibility they bore. She glanced at Fredric, who was gazing around with his usual curiosity and wonder.

"Stay focused," she reminded him. "We have a long way to go."

Fredric nodded, adjusting his grip on his sword. "I know. I'm ready."