Chapter 20: A New Beginning

90 7 0
                                    

The convoy moved at a steady pace through the dense forest. The rhythmic clatter of hooves and the creaking of wooden wheels filled the air, mingling with the distant calls of forest creatures.

I sat beside the coachman, Nathalie safely beside me, watching the scenery pass by. The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows that danced across the forest floor.

"So, where exactly are we headed?" I asked the coachman.

"The captain said that we'll be dropping you two to the town of Riverton," he replied. "It's the nearest settlement. You'll find food and shelter."

"Shouldn't take more than a couple of hours," the coachman said, giving me a reassuring nod.

Nathalie clung to my side, her eyes wide with curiosity and a hint of unease. I squeezed her hand, trying to convey a sense of safety and calm.

As we continued our journey, the forest began to thin out, and the trees gave way to open fields. The air grew cooler, and the scent of wildflowers replaced the earthy aroma of the woods.

In the distance, I could see the outlines of buildings, indicating our proximity to Riverton.

The convoy halted as we reached the town's outskirts. The guards dismounted and approached the carriage in front, engaging in a brief conversation with someone inside.

Moments later, the same man who had pointed his sword at me earlier returned to my carriage.

"You can get off here," he said, his tone still wary but less hostile. "This is the town of Riverton."

"Careful," I helped Nathalie down from the carriage, and we stepped onto the cobblestone road.

The town buzzed with activity. People moved about, tending to their daily tasks, and the sounds of commerce filled the air. Market stalls lined the streets, selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

"Thank you for the ride," I said to the coachman and the guards. "We appreciate it."

He then handed me a bag. It contained some coins. One coin that was made with gold, three silver ones, and several bronze coins. Maybe this was the currency of this world?

"What's this for?" I asked, puzzled.

"Take it," the guard responded. "It's her simple way of helping you. Also, I think you'll need it for you and your daughter."

"Thank you."

"Stay out of trouble," the guard replied curtly before turning away. And the carriage moved on.

He can also be generous. There's no need to be that tense, you know. It's not like I'm going to shoot or anything.

Anyway, I took a deep breath and looked around.

Riverton seemed like a typical medieval town, with its thatched-roof houses, bustling market square, and a central well where townsfolk gathered to draw water.

But there was something more—an undercurrent of tension, perhaps remnants of the recent battle against the Sea Serpent.

"Come on, Nathalie," I said, leading her through the busy streets. "Let's find somewhere to eat and rest."

We wandered through the market, the tantalizing aroma of baked goods and roasted meats making my stomach growl.

I spotted a stall where a woman was selling freshly baked bread. The sight of the golden loaves made my mouth water.

"How much for a loaf?" I asked.

"Two bronze coins," the woman replied, eyeing us curiously.

I handed over the coins, and she passed me a warm loaf wrapped in cloth. The scent of the bread was intoxicating.

Quefaialm: In Another World With A BattleshipWhere stories live. Discover now