Eternal Oaths: Book One

Chapter XI

As the dawn's first light bathed Luminara City's bustling harbor in a golden glow, a honey-colored wolf bounded across sand-crusted wooden planks, with four passengers in tow.

"Told you we would make it!" Talia half laughed and half panted, after shifting back into her mortal form. Nyx, Talia, Solene and Eden hoisted their bags over their shoulder and started walking towards their meeting point with Zephyrine. Remi watched sleepily from inside Solene's chest pocket.

"I'm surprised you don't stay in your wolf form more often. You're faster than the wind!" Solene was always captivated by shifters. Talia grew almost ten times her mortal size, with even more strength in her powerful four-legged body. 

"I prefer hot baths, my comfy bed and to use a toilet, otherwise I probably would remain a wolf much longer." Talia giggled.

"I always forget how gigantic you are as a wolf." Nyx remarked in awe. 

"Not as gigantic as the sea turtles!" Talia squealed as they came into view.

The harbor itself buzzed with activity. Merchants shouted their wares, the clinking of coins and the hum of bargaining voices creating a symphony of commerce. Children laughed and pointed, their eyes wide with amazement as the turtles approached. The sound of the waves gently lapping against the wooden docks provided a soothing backdrop to the lively scene. 

The turtles moved gracefully, their powerful flippers slicing through the azure waves with ease. 

On each turtle's back, secure decks had been constructed, intricately designed to blend harmoniously with the creatures' natural beauty. The decks were adorned with protective railings and cushioned seating, ensuring the comfort and safety of the twenty passengers they carried. The passengers, a mix of awe-struck travelers and seasoned wayfinders, either gazed in wonder at the majestic beings beneath them or the Luminara skyline in front of them.

As the turtles drew nearer, the sensation of their arrival was palpable. The boardwalk vibrated slightly under the rhythmic push of their flippers. The crowd and passengers erupted in cheers and applause, the joyous sounds echoing across the water. The turtles, unperturbed by the noise, slowly came to a halt, allowing the passengers to disembark over a single gigantic flipper they rested onto the dock. Each step onto the solid ground felt like a return to reality, leaving behind the dreamlike journey on the backs of these majestic creatures. Families eagerly awaited to see loved ones they hadn't seen for a while. Lovers, friends and mates cried. Starfell students were home for the long Suncrest holiday.

Once the crowds began clearing, Solene spotted Queen Elara and Zephyrine, followed by their eight blood sworn warriors.

"It's almost time." Zephyrine said in greeting. 

"This is Eden, a shapeshifter from Aethereon." Solene encouraged Eden forward with a press of her hand to her back. 

Eden stepped forward. "An honor." She bowed.

Queen Elara acknowledged her with a courteous nod and tight smile. 

"I have a lot of questions for you Eden, but I'll save them for the long ride." Zephyrine stated bluntly.

A broad older man wearing an impressive coat and spotless wayfinder's uniform approached them. "Your majesties." He bowed before them in reverence. "I am Captain Cerulean. We are ready for your departure. We've selected our fastest and most reliable sea turtle and assigned our top wayfinders to guide your journey."

"Most generous of you Captain." Queen Elara's voice was a melody.

The captain blushed before saying, "This way please."