The Shadow Order Book 4

Chapter 3: Arrival in Radiant Crown

The journey to Valoria was filled with laughter and lightheartedness as Kael and Seraphina traveled together. Along the winding forest paths, they played a game of tag on horseback, with Seraphina daring Kael to keep up with her as she weaved through the trees. She teased him relentlessly whenever he fell behind, her silver hair streaming behind her like a comet. Kael couldn't help but grin as he pushed his mount faster, enjoying the thrill of the chase.

During a brief stop by a crystal-clear river, Seraphina playfully splashed water at Kael, drenching the front of his tunic. He retaliated, sending a wave back at her, both of them laughing as they tried to outdo each other. The cool water was a welcome relief under the summer sun, and soon their playful battle left them both soaked but smiling.

On another evening, they sat by the campfire, sharing stories of their old world. Seraphina recounted a particularly embarrassing moment from her school days, and Kael couldn't help but laugh until his sides hurt. In return, he shared a story of a disastrous business meeting he'd once had in his previous life, which had them both in stitches. The night air was filled with their laughter, the crackling fire adding a warm glow to their faces.

One morning, as they passed through a small village, they stumbled upon a local festival. Seraphina eagerly dragged Kael to try the festival games, challenging him to a throwing contest. She won, of course, and made sure to rub it in with a triumphant grin. Kael accepted his defeat with a good-natured sigh, though he managed to win a small trinket for her from another game. She blushed as he handed it over, a little wooden carving of a phoenix.

Even on the road, they found ways to keep things lively. Kael would sometimes attempt to teach Seraphina some of the songs he remembered from Earth, and she would counter with melodies from Eldoria. Their singing, often off-key and full of laughter, echoed through the hills as they continued their journey, enjoying the carefree moments before reaching their destination.

After weeks of travel, they finally arrived at the capital of Valoria, the beautiful city of Radiant Crown. The city resembled an ancient Venice, its cobblestone streets winding between elegant buildings that rose like grand sculptures from the waterways. Stone bridges arched gracefully over narrow canals, connecting the city's various districts, while gondolas drifted along the water, their pilots guiding them with long poles. Ornate balconies hung over the canals, adorned with vibrant flowers that spilled over the railings, adding splashes of color to the stone facades. The scent of fresh bread and spices filled the air, mingling with the salty breeze that swept in from the sea, while musicians played soft tunes on street corners, creating an atmosphere of timeless charm.

Kael marveled at the sight of the city, taking in the intricate architecture and the way the sunlight danced on the water's surface. "This place is incredible," he breathed, turning to Seraphina with a look of wonder.

Seraphina nodded, a wistful smile on her lips. "The first time I was here, I was just as amazed. It's really beautiful, isn't it?"

Kael immediately agreed, his gaze still roaming over the cityscape. "It reminds me of Venice back in our old world. The canals, the architecture... It's almost like stepping back in time."

Seraphina's expression softened, a hint of nostalgia in her eyes. "I never got to visit Venice, unfortunately. I only ever saw it through pictures. I would have loved to travel there, but with my legs in that condition back then, it was hard."

Kael glanced at her, a touch of sadness in his eyes. "I'm sorry to hear that, but at least you get to travel a lot in Eldoria."

Seraphina's face brightened, and she nodded enthusiastically. "That's true! And I'm determined to make full use of my life here in Eldoria."