Michrinor: The Fates of The Heirs

Chapter 16 - Stowaways

"I still don't understand what I'm supposed to do to defeat the Queen or even where to start," Ava confessed to Taci as they walked among the newly formed Band of Gibor. Her voice was tinged with uncertainty, her gaze drifting to the horizon ahead.

Taci smiled warmly and gave Ava a reassuring pat on the back. However, she forgot her own strength, causing Ava to jump slightly and cough, more from surprise than anything else.

With a soft laugh to ease the moment and cover Ava's embarrassment, Taci said, "Do not fret, Ava. You will know what to do when the time comes. Until then, our path leads us to Kamwler. With luck, we shall learn more about the Queen there and decide the next course of our journey."

"Kamwler?" Ava asked, the unfamiliar name sparking her curiosity.

"It is a small town to the east," Taci explained. "The journey will be long, but fear not—we are well-supplied, and there are villages along the way where we can replenish our provisions."

As they spoke, Mirin, who had been walking near the back of the group, hurried forward to catch up with Taci and Ava. "If you are hungry, Princess Ava, I have some bread and other provisions for you," she offered, partly breathless as she matched their pace.

Ava smiled at Mirin's kindness but shook her head. "Please, just call me Ava. I'm not used to all this 'princess' stuff, and it feels a little weird."

Mirin nodded, a bit flustered. "Of course... Ava."

Taci, overhearing the exchange, turned to the others. "That's a good reminder for everyone. We should refrain from using her title on this journey. It's best to draw as little attention to ourselves as possible."

With that settled, Taci moved ahead to check on the other members of the group, while Mirin continued walking beside Ava. "Thank you, Mirin, but I'm not really hungry right now," Ava said, her gaze wandering across the landscape. The further they traveled from the King's city, the heavier her heart felt. The safety and warmth she had felt in her father's presence seemed to fade with each step.

Noticing Ava's unease, Mirin lowered her voice and said, "Ava, please remember that the King has every faith in you. He is wise and trustworthy, and if he placed you on this path and surrounded you with the most skilled Naitseers in the realm, then I know you will be just fine. You are in the company of the finest warriors in all Michrinor."

Mirin glanced toward Donamer, who quickly shifted his eyes back to the road ahead before he could be caught eavesdropping. Ava couldn't help but smile at the small exchange. Gathering her resolve, she pulled back her shoulders and lifted her chin, determined to face whatever lay ahead.

And so, with renewed determination, Ava pressed onward, ready to meet the challenges that awaited her on this uncertain journey.

The band traveled north through the quaint fishing village of Damai. Given its close proximity to the city of Doreperth, many of the villagers had already heard of Ava's arrival. In her honor, and that of her companions, the residents offered gifts, refreshments, and well wishes as they walked through the cobblestone streets. Ava was overwhelmed by the warm smiles and genuine affection from all those around her. The sense of welcome filled her with a strange mix of pride and humility.

As they continued along the northern banks of Port Colu, a bustling port where trade goods from across the realm flowed into Doreperth, Ava marveled at the majestic mountains rising to the north. Their snow-capped peaks stood tall against the sky, exuding a sense of timeless grandeur.

"That large mountain there is Mount Oodkurchar, home of the Luzka," Lanonir explained, pointing to the towering peak that disappeared into the clouds.

"Luzka?" Ava asked, her curiosity piqued.