Michrinor: The Fates of The Heirs

Chapter 44 - Back to the Beginning

The morning sun broke through the thick clouds over Smoreri Hold, casting the ancient stone fortress in a golden light that seemed almost miraculous after the darkness that had long shrouded it. Ava stood at the edge of the courtyard, her gaze lingering on the towering walls one last time. The shadows that had once clung to them now seemed less ominous, as if the light itself had banished the darkness from this place. Her heart felt lighter than it had in days, a sense of accomplishment and hope filling her chest.

Behind her, the courtyard buzzed with activity. The Naitseers were busy making final preparations for their departure, checking supplies and ensuring everything was in order for the journey ahead. Harvan's deep voice rumbled as he issued instructions, his towering form easily visible above the others. Nearby, the King exchanged quiet words with Segulah, who stood with a regal yet softened demeanor, her eyes occasionally drifting to Ava with a mixture of pride and gratitude.

The Momos, Meepat and Lundas, darted between the travelers, their fluffy forms bouncing with excitement. They chattered in their high-pitched voices, marveling at everything around them. Their delight was infectious, and even the usually stoic Naitseers couldn't help but smile at their antics. Lundas tried to mimic the way the soldiers packed their gear, his tiny paws fumbling with a piece of rope while Meepat stood on tiptoes, attempting to peek into one of the bags.

Ava couldn't help but grin at the sight. It was hard to believe how far they had all come since they first set foot in this land. So much had changed—both within the world around her and within herself. She still felt the weight of the responsibility she carried, but now, there was a new sense of purpose behind it.

The sound of footsteps approached, and Ava turned to see Harvan making his way toward her. He looked down at her with that familiar, warm expression that always made her feel safe, no matter the situation.

"Ready to leave this place behind, Little Bean?" he asked, his voice a comforting rumble.

Ava nodded, a smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah, I think I am. It's time to go home."

Harvan chuckled, his large hand ruffling her hair in a way that was both affectionate and a little embarrassing. "Home indeed. And with the dawn of a new day, we shall face it together."

As the preparations neared completion, King Emanvadrin and Segulah approached the group. The King's presence was commanding yet kind, his eyes filled with the wisdom of his years. Segulah, now free of the darkness that had once consumed her, looked upon Ava with a gentle smile—a smile that spoke of forgiveness and newfound understanding.

"Dear Sister," Segulah began, her voice carrying the weight of the bond they had forged. "Our paths have been long and fraught with trials, but we now walk them together. Go with the knowledge that you have brought light to this land, and that you shall always have a place here."

Ava felt a warmth spread through her chest. "Thank you," she said simply, her voice soft but filled with sincerity. "For everything."

With a final nod, Segulah stepped back, allowing King Emanvadrin to address the group. "The journey to Doreperth will be long, but it is one we must take together. United as we are now, there is nothing we cannot face."

The group began to move, the gates of Smoreri Hold creaking open as they prepared to depart. The morning air was crisp and cool, filled with the promise of a new beginning. The mood was light, buoyed by the sense of accomplishment that lingered after the events at Smoreri Hold. The shadows of the past had been banished, replaced by the hope of what lay ahead.

As Ava and her companions started down the path, leaving the fortress behind, she glanced back one last time. Smoreri Hold stood tall against the horizon, no longer a symbol of fear, but a reminder of the strength that came from overcoming it.