Beyond

New Beginnings

In the picturesque town of Stirling, Scotland, nestled among rolling hills and meandering rivers, lived Piper Niamh Mackenzie. Her life had taken a serendipitous turn, leading her away from a turbulent past and into the tranquil embrace of her aunt's inheritance. The old cottage, draped in ivy and nestled at the edge of the highlands, had become her sanctuary—a place where she sought refuge and solace.

Piper's journey to Stirling had been marked by a desire for escape, an urgent need to break free from the confines of a home clouded by hostility and concealed secrets. Her parents, aristocrats entangled in a world of appearances and masks, had crafted an environment of stifling expectations and hidden agendas. As soon as the opportunity arose, Piper grasped onto the lifeline her late aunt Matilda had extended—an opportunity to reclaim her own narrative and breathe life into her dreams.

Two weeks ago, she received some information regarding the passing of her late aunt. It was shocking to her since they hadn't visited her for ages. Piper's aunt was a lone modest woman who hadn't formed a family. She just had Piper's family who would spend the summer with her. They had been doing this for several years, since Piper was born until she turned 15. Unbeknown to Piper, the relationship between her mother and aunt took a turn for the worse, and from that summer onwards they did not return. Aunt and niece would be deprived from any kind of contact forever.

It was a beautiful two story house was located within reach of the forest, albeit somewhat close to the city centre. Despite the situation requiring her to move there, it had been a long time ago that she decided that Stirling was where she intended to build he life. She felt this city had a really special meaning to her and, even though she hadn't been there in a long time, it was growing more within her the need for going there. It was like that place was calling her. And the situation, a force of sorts, whatever you want to call it, would made her go there one way or another.

With auburn hair that cascaded like the warm hues of autumn leaves and eyes that held a curious glint of wonder, Piper embodied the essence of her new beginning. Her heart danced to the rhythm of freedom as she explored the lush landscapes surrounding her cottage, her trusty companion by her side.

As a get away from the somewhat toxic and secretive environment she was living in, and in order to blow off steam, Piper took a liking to the practice of sports. In particular, horse riding and archery, done separately or at the same time. They have become a great way for her to evade from the real world and focus on other things that aren't university or life related. For this reason, it is quite handy to have a stable for her beloved gentle giant, a friesian white and grey horse who has been by her side for a couple of years now and with whom she has created a bond like no other. Riding through the emerald fields and winding forest trails became her therapy, a way to liberate her spirit from the shackles of the past.

Amidst her rides and solitary walks, Piper found herself drawn to the historic halls of Stirling's university, where she pursued her passion for literature and language. The scent of old parchment and the whisper of ancient tales became her companions, and the corridors of knowledge offered her refuge from the tumultuous emotions that still lingered. As a university student, Piper immersed herself in her studies, she had a particular fascination with ancient legends and folklore, eagerly delving into dusty tomes and enigmatic manuscripts, seeking hidden truths and lost tales. The university's library was her sanctuary, a place where she could lose herself in the secrets of the past.

As the days shifted, Piper's life began to take shape in this new chapter. The quaint cottage transformed into a haven of cherished memories and a canvas for her dreams.

The auburn-ish tonality of the trees and overall autumnal scenery that has flooded the Scottish picture has her in awe. Not only because of its beauty, but it makes her favourite season acquire a whole new dimension. The season of wearing knee socks, tights, plaid stuff for the first time in several moths; those chilly mornings where you can see your breath and draw in foggy windows; cozy fireplaces and reading while you watch the sun set earlier each day while sipping on your steamy mug filled with coffee or a hot cocoa; baking, and cooking heartwarming dishes. It is undeniable, autumn is the season.