Alythia

With the six silver coins, I felt ready for the next step of my journey and returned to Elric's house to share the good news.

"Elric, look!" I proudly displayed the silver coins. "I earned enough money to go to Caeloria!"

Elric and his father both smiled at my accomplishment.

"That's great, Alythia. I'm proud of you.” Elric said.

His father nodded in agreement. "Not just anyone can earn that much money so quickly, you have a bright future ahead of you, Alythia."

I blushed, feeling embarrased at having been complimented so earnestly.

"Thank you both for everything. I couldn't have done it without your help."

Elric and I spent the rest of the evening packing for my trip tomorrow. He insisted on giving me another set of spare clothes, a small knife for protection, and even some dried food and a small waterskin. I offered to pay him for his things but he stubbornly declined. I couldn't help but feel grateful for his kindness, even though I had just met him a few days ago.

…

The next morning, we woke up early and headed to the village square, where the carriage was scheduled to depart. The carriage was a simple wooden vehicle with a roof, drawn by a sturdy-looking horse.

Elric handed me a small package. "Here, I made you some snacks for the journey. They're not much, but I hope they help."

I smiled, accepting the package. "Thank you, Elric. I really appreciate it."

He patted then my head. As we approached the driver, Elric introduced me and explained that I would be joining the trip to Caeloria. The driver, Baelor, a middle-aged man with a bushy beard and a friendly smile, nodded and helped me load my small bag onto the carriage.

"Take care of yourself, Alythia. And don't forget to visit us when you can."

I nodded, feeling a lump in my throat. "I will. I promise. Thank you for everything."

I paid the wagon driver the three silver coins for my fare, and he helped me climb aboard. I was the only passenger. After the remaining space on the carriage was filled up with cargo, mostly wheat and other agricultural products, we prepared to set off. With a final wave, Baelor snapped the reins, and the wagon began to move. As the village disappeared into the distance, a thought crossed my mind,

What if I just stay in the village?

This thought brought a trace of sadness to my otherwise excited mood.

…

Throughout the journey, Baelor proved to be a knowledgeable and engaging conversation partner. He shared stories about the cities and towns he had visited, as well as the various people he had met along the way as a merchant.

"The Triumvirate of Concordia is an important trade hub, connecting different regions with its three powerful cities" Baelor explained as the horses trotted along the dirt road. "Astralis, the capital, is the political center, while Portus to the north is a coastal city known for its bustling ports and shipping industry."

As we passed by a group of merchants, Baelor waved and mentioned, "See them? They're heading to Caeloria as well. Though it can’t compare to Astralis City or Portus, It's still a vibrant city with a thriving marketplace! The people here are friendly, and the streets are filled with life. You'll find it quite different from the village you came from."

As we continued our journey, Baelor occasionally pointed out notable landmarks and shared stories about the various trade routes that connected the Triumvirate of Concordia to the neighboring regions. Apparently, it was called the Triumvirate because after a civil war broke out between the humans, elves, and flugels about 30 years ago, the original country, Astralis, was split up and it wasn’t until 23 years ago when they came together again and formed the Triumvirate of Concordia. As we traveled northwest, a large mountain range appeared in the distance to our left. When Baelor noticed me admiring the mountains,

"Ah, past those mountains lies the Dwarven Kingdom. Their armor and craftsmanship are unparalleled. They fetch a high price in markets all around."

As our conversation continued, Baelor's tone turned bitter when he began talking about his experience in the Alsanar Empire to the south.

"You know, I used to do business in Sunan, but the last time I went there, they stopped letting us merchants from Concordia in" frustration evident in his voice.

"I was stuck outside the city gates and forced to lug my goods all the way back. It's a real shame, but those warmongers don't know how to treat people with respect. They're nothing but a bunch of barbaric brutes."

He sighed and shook his head, clearly upset by the memory. "But enough about that," he said, attempting to change the subject. "Let me tell you about some of the great places you can find in Caeloria. There's an amazing little restaurant near the central market called 'The Golden Plate.'...” and on he went.

I could tell that he genuinely cared about the people he transported and wanted to help them have a good experience in the city, but I kinda tuned him out halfway. There was only so much I could listen to and remember about this city or other neighbouring cities.

…

On the fifth day of our journey, the city of Caeloria appeared in the distance, its towering walls and impressive architecture a testament to its importance in the region. However, the region protected by the walls appears to only make up a small part of the overall city. Baelor pointed out some of the features of the wall and its significance but all of my attention was already stolen away by the liveliness of the city. It was the first time in this world that I had never seen this many people. As we neared, I noticed the metropolis outside the walls was bustling with activity. Market stalls lined the roads, merchants hawking their wares to travelers and locals alike. The air was filled with the enticing aroma of freshly cooked food and the sound of lively conversation.

"Well, here we are, Alythia" Baelor said as he pulled the carriage to a stop near a building with a large “Arcadia’s International Merchants Association branch” sign.

"I wish you the best of luck. Remember, the city is a place full of opportunities, but it can also be unforgiving if you're not careful."

“Thanks, I wish you luck in your business too.”

After asking him for some lodging recommendations and general directions to the Adventurers’ Guild building, I grabbed my bag and climbed down from the carriage. Taking a deep breath to control my surging emotions, I set off to explore the bustling streets of Caeloria, ready to embrace whatever challenges and adventures lay ahead.