Hestia arrived at the market early morning, her heirloom jewels Clutched tightly, she scanned the stalls searching for a reputable jeweler when s familiar voice greeted.
" Mrs. Marcus Good morning" Hestia said approaching Emma.
Emma's eyes Widened is surprise. "Morning, Hestia! Are you shopping for something?"
She shook her head. "I'm here to sell."
Mrs. Marcus's expression turned puzzled. "Sell? What do you have to sell, Hestia?"
She revealed the jewels and Emma's eyes sparkled with recognition.
"Rylynn's condition worsened and I need to take her to the kingdom's City for examination" Hestia explained "I must sell these to cover the costs."
"Oh dear you should have told me." Emma's face filled with concern "come with me."
Hestia followed Emma to a secluded area away from prying ears.
"These jewels are rare and precious" she said examining them. "but you don't have to sell them. I guess I can help"
Hestia's eyes widened in surprised.
"Go home, pack your belongings and prepared to leave" Emma instructed. "You won't be going to the kingdom's City. Our neighboring kingdom Thalnaraen has skilled physicians who can help Rylynn."
"Thalnaraen?" She asked.
"Trust me, Hestia" Emma said her voice low "Thalnaraen holds secrets and solutions. You'll find help there."
Hestia returned home, her steps tentative. Thalnaraen? Could she trust Emma's guidance? But Rylynn's well-being took precedence. She pushed aside her doubts, attributing her unease to natural nervousness.
Upon entering, Hestia found Rylynn already awake, her condition alarming. Her lips had turned faint purple and her skin was paler than before.
"Rylynn!" Hestia rushed to her her side concern etched on her face. "I'm sorry I left you yesterday."
Rylynn's weak smile reassured Hestia. "It's alright Hestia don't worry."
"We're leaving today"Hestia announced, helping Rylynn to sit up.
"What? Why? Where?" Her eyes widened .
"To Thalnaraen"Hestia replied "for your treatment."
"But Hestia I'm fine"she protested.
"Don't dispute this Rylynn I've already give my word." Her expression Brooked no argument.
Raymond who had been quietly observing spoke up. "Thalnaraen?" His tone mixed curiosity and apprehension.
Hestia turned to him. "Are you coming with us?"
"Yes"he nodded slowly.
"Fine"Hestia said "pack your belongings. We leave soon."
Raymond's departed to prepare, Hestia assisted Rylynn in gathering her things.
"Will we be fine, Hestia" Rylynn asked in a soft whisper.
"We will. I promise." Her determination hardened.
Hestia entered the coffee shop, ensuring evening was in order. She spotted Mrs. Marcus engaged in lively conversation with associates. As Hestia approached, Mrs. Marcus excused herself.
"Is every prepared, Hestia?" Mrs. Marcus inquired.
"All set" Hestia replied.
"Excellent." She nodded.
She summoned Daniel who promptly appeared.
"Daniel regarding the Thalnaraen venture you discussed with my husband....."Mrs.marcus began.
"Yes, Mrs. Marcus?" Daniel responded.
"I have a humble request "Mrs. Marcus continued "A family bereaved and beset by illness requires assistance. Their circumstances are ..... delicate. The patriarch's passing has left them with limited resources."
Daniel's expression turned understanding.
"I implore you " Mrs. Marcus said. "Extend your benevolence to this family. Escort them to the castle where certain influential individuals may be moved to alleviate their plight."
He nodded discreetly. "I comprehend, Mrs. Marcus. Consider it arranged."
Her gaze held Hestia's "your package will be safely transported and their situation will be evaluated"
Hestia bid farewell to her colleagues and neighbors, a lingering unease unsettled her. She couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't quite right.
Emma's offer of help had been a lifeline, yet Hestia hesitated to entrust her family's well-being to this enigmatic woman. No concrete reason justified her distrust but the uncertainty gnawed at her.
Hestia was well aware that Emma had been their sole source of support when no one else would help. She had genuine concern for Rylynn's condition and her guidance might be their only hope.
Can I truly trust Emma? What if this is a mistake? But what choice do I have?.
Her thoughts swirled to many directions but at the end she made her mind and hope. With a deep breath she focused on the journey ahead, she had the jewels as a last resort but Emma's assistance seemed the most promising path.
The carriage door closed behind Rylynn, Raymond and Hestia enveloping them in silence. As the wheels began to turn, Hestia's mind raced with thoughts of the unknown but with each passing mile hope gradually replaced her doubts. Night descended shrouding the landscape in darkness. The carriage rumbled in its rhythmic creaking s constant companion. Dawn broke casting a warm glow over the rolling hills. Yet the journey continued a seemingly endless labyrinth of roads and rivers.
On the third morning, Hestia's curiosity got the better of her. She peeked out the carriage window, her gaze falling upon the majestic landscape of Thalnaraen. The border town bustled with activity, merchants and travelers streaming through the gates. Ahead w contingent if soldiers in blue and silver armor halted carriages and wagons, scrutinizing each passenger. The castle's crest emblazoned on their shield left no doubt, these were the king's guard.
Hestia's heart skipped a beat as their carriage approached the check point. Daniel their escort descended from his mount and approached the soldiers.
"State your business in Thalnaraen" a gruff voice demanded.
Daniel presented a parchment, sealed with an official crest. "Special envoy from Mrs. Marcus bearing guests for the castle."
"Very well. Proceed." He said skeptically.
The carriage rolled forward passing through the gates into Thalnaraen. Hestia's anxiety mingled with anticipation.
What lay ahead!?
