A Claim Of Power and Origin

Chapter 2: The Path to Radiantia

Two months had passed since the old wise man's visit, and I had thrown myself into preparations. I perfected my disguise and deepened my knowledge of Radiantia's customs. Every day, I practiced my spells, honing my magical abilities to ensure I could pass as someone from a distant, more respectable land. My opportunity to leave the Forgotten Lands finally came when Radiantia announced the opening of a new school. They were inviting fifty young people from each of the eight recognized lands to enroll, training them to be soldiers and sorcerers under Radiantia's most specialized teachers.

The requirements were straightforward: applicants had to be between the ages of 18 and 25. At 19, I qualified by age but, of course, the Forgotten Lands were not included in this prestigious opportunity. However, fate seemed to be on my side. A merchant caravan bound for Radiantia arrived in our village, seeking rare herbs and potions. Seizing the chance, I offered my services as a healer, claiming to be from a distant part of Naera. The merchants, eager for profit, welcomed me into their fold, unaware of my true origins. 

As the time of my departure approached, the entire village gathered in the central square to see me off. The sun was just beginning to set, casting a warm, golden light over everything, making the moment feel both surreal and poignant. My heart was heavy with a mixture of anxiety for this unknown journey.

I stood in front of my parents, my mother holding back tears and my father with a look of pride and concern. "Mother, Father," I said, my voice trembling. "I'm going to miss you both so much."

My mother, Mauricia, stepped forward and embraced me tightly. "Oh, Liora," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "Be safe. Remember everything we've taught you. We love you more than words can say."

"I love you too, Mother," I replied, my own tears now falling freely.

My father placed a hand on my shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring. "You are our strength, Liora. You carry the hopes of all of us. We believe in you. Never forget that."

"I won't, Father. I promise."

As I turned to address the rest of the villagers, I saw their faces filled with hope and fear. They had all come to see me off, to send their blessings and prayers. I took a deep breath and tried to steady my voice. "Thank you all for being here," I began. "I know this journey is dangerous, but I will do everything in my power to save our land and our people. Your support means the world to me, and I carry it with me as I go."

An elderly woman stepped forward, her eyes glistening with tears. "We believe in you, Liora. You have always been special. Go and show them the strength of the Forgotten."

A chorus of agreements and well-wishes followed, and I felt a wave of love and support wash over me. It was almost overwhelming, the responsibility I was about to shoulder.

Just then, a young mother approached, holding the hand of a small boy who looked up at me with wide, innocent eyes. "Liora," she said, her voice trembling. "Our hope of survival is in your hands. Please, for the sake of our children, save our land."

I knelt down to be at eye level with the boy. "What's your name?" I asked gently.

"Jorin," he replied, his voice soft

"Jorin," I said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I promise to do everything I can to make sure you and all the children of our land have a safe future. Be strong and brave, just like your mother."

He nodded, and I stood up, looking at his mother. "I will not let you down. Any of you."

With a final, heartfelt farewell, I turned and began to walk towards the caravan that would take me to Naera. My parents walked with me to the edge of the village, their hands holding mine until the very last moment.