After a long day of traveling for Serena and the group, they managed to make it past the checkpoint. Erik initially wanted to press on until sunset, to get as close to Gallopolis as possible, but Serena gently explained the dangers of the frigid desert nights. After some thought, Erik agreed, suggesting they camp for the night instead.
Serena watched as Erik and Raeyla made quick work of finding a suitable location. She couldn't help but admire their efficiency - the two moved with practiced ease, as though they had done this countless times before. It warmed her heart to see them working together so seamlessly. From what Halden had said, he had only met Erik and Raeyla a few days ago, yet she could easily see that those two had a bond that suggested a much longer companionship. It reassured her to know that the Luminary had found such capable and kind allies in these difficult times for him.
The camp was nestled in a small alcove in a rockface, providing both shelter from the cold winds and protection from wandering monsters. Veronica claimed a spot near the back of the alcove and began to set up their bed for the night, leaving Serena to take a moment and observe her new traveling companions more closely.
Halden moved around outside the camp, his brow furrowed in concentration as he searched the ground for firewood. Erik walked past him back into the camp, his arms full of herbs and other materials he found in the surrounding desert. He rummaged through their bags, following Raeyla's directions as she kneeled near the center, already arranging stones in a circle for the fire.
Feeling the need to be helpful, Serena approached the group. "Might I lend a hand with anything? I should very much like to contribute," she offered, her voice full of quiet eagerness.
Halden glanced at Erik, unsure, before the cyan-haired thief offered a friendly suggestion. "How about you check the ground? Make sure there aren't any rocks or twigs where we're laying down. Wouldn't want anyone waking up sore in the morning."
Serena smiled warmly, nodding. "Of course. That's a wonderful idea."
The task was simple enough, and she finished it quickly. Afterward, she found herself drawn to Raeyla, who was meticulously building the fire. The brunette girl had dug a shallow trench and lined it with stones, carefully arranging the sticks Halden had gathered.
"Is there anything I can help with? I've already checked the camp," Serena offered again, her voice polite and eager.
Raeyla paused for a moment before replying. "Actually, could you help with the fire? That'll give Halden time to set up his things."
Halden, who had just returned with another bundle of wood, gave a small shake of his head. "I can help with the fire. My bed can wait."
Raeyla smiled, though there was a hint of insistence in her tone as she glanced at Serena. "Serena said it's going to be cold tonight. Maybe she could show you how to make a warmer bed? It'll take some time, right, Serena? I'll handle the fire from here."
Serena nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, she's quite right, Halden. The desert nights can be rather unforgiving. Have you ever slept in one before?"
His expression shifted, a touch of nerves slipping through as he shook his head. "Not really… Cobblestone's nothing like this."
"Well then, I'd be more than happy to help you prepare. It's important to stay warm." She gave him an encouraging smile, seeing the small flicker of relief in his eyes.
"That'd be great. Thank you, Serena," he said with a smile, stepping aside to follow her lead.
As they walked a short distance away to gather grass, Serena stole a glance back at the camp. Erik was now crouched near the fire pit, blowing gently on the smoldering embers in an attempt to get them to catch. Veronica, of course, couldn't resist stepping in. She raised her hand, casting a small fire spell with a flick of her wrist. The wood ignited instantly, causing Erik to jump back, startled by the sudden blaze.
Veronica, clearly pleased with herself, smirked triumphantly at Erik. He shot her an exasperated look but before he could say anything, she turned on her heel and strutted back toward their bed. Serena sighed inwardly. Veronica had always been quick with her magic, but ever since she lost and regained her powers, she seemed almost impatient to use them.
"I should speak to her later," Serena murmured to herself, already imagining how that conversation would go. Veronica rarely took kindly to being scolded, even when she knew she was in the wrong."
"Is Veronica always like that with magic?" Halden's voice pulled her from her thoughts. He had seen the exchange between her sister and Erik, and his expression suggested that he found it both amusing and a little concerning.
Serena smiled softly. "Not always, no. But she's rather thrilled to have her magic back, I think. It's something she's deeply proud of."
Halden hesitated for a moment before asking, "Is she really that powerful?"
"Oh yes, very much so," Serena replied, her tone filled with warmth and pride. "The elders have always believed my sister to be a prodigy of magic. She mastered every spell far quicker than I did."
"You seem really talented too, Serena. You've been keeping us healed all day!" Halden offered, his tone sincere.
Serena chuckled lightly, shaking her head. "You're very kind, Halden. I do my best, but I'll never be as gifted as Veronica. Still, I shall do everything in my power to keep everyone safe."
With that, they resumed their task, gathering enough grass to prepare the beds for everyone. When they returned to the camp, Serena showed Halden how to make his bedding softer and warmer. He thanked her with a grateful smile before settling down near his spot, not far from where she and Veronica would sleep.
Serena placed the remaining grass near Raeyla and Erik's bedrolls, noticing just how close everyone was. The alcove was small, and the edges of their beds touched, but there was a certain comfort in the closeness.
As the sun began to set, and the group sat by the crackling fire in the cooling air, Serena felt a sense of peace wash over her, content in the knowledge that they would all be warm and safe through the cold desert night.
Later in the evening, Serena found herself quietly observing the group's dynamics, eager to learn about her traveling companions. Raeyla and Erik were standing just outside the alcove, Erik demonstrating the proper grip and technique of handling a knife while Raeyla mimicked his stances. Serena smiled faintly, watching how they worked naturally together. Raeyla's focus and diligence in practice reminded her of Veronica - both girls were sharp and determined in their own way. Halden, meanwhile, sat by the fire, his eyes occasionally flickering toward Erik and Raeyla, but his focus seemed more on keeping the flames alive.
Veronica, meanwhile, had already settled into their shared bedroll, and she soon called out to her sister. "Serena, why don't you play something on your harp?"
"Oh, of course," Serena replied, feeling a small surge of delight at the request. Veronica rarely asked for music, and Serena saw it as a chance to soothe her. She quickly retrieved her harp from her bag. As she began plucking the delicate strings, she noticed Halden's curious glance in her direction, and the familiar sensation of self-consciousness crept up her spine. What if they didn't like it? What if she disturbed them?
Her fingers glided across the strings, playing a gentle melody from their childhood. The notes floated through the air, serene and nostalgic. Veronica closed her eyes and swayed slightly to the rhythm, a small, contented smile touching her lips. Serena allowed herself to relax, losing herself in the music. But then, out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Erik, Raeyla, and Halden watching her, having stopped what they were doing.
Her stomach twisted with anxiety and the thoughts that she had bothered them spiraled in her mind.
She paused, looking up with a worried expression. "Oh, I'm terribly sorry, would you prefer I stop?" she asked, her voice soft, almost apologetic.
Raeyla was the first to speak, her tone quick and reassuring. "No, no, it's really good! We just didn't expect it."
"Yeah, please keep playing. It's nice." Halden added with an encouraging smile before he turned back to the fire.
Relief washed over Serena, and she continued playing while Erik and Raeyla moved on to preparing dinner, the comforting smell of herbs filling the air. Despite Veronica's predictable complaint about the lack of meat, the meal was pleasant, and a sense of camaraderie settled over the group. After explaining to the twins how the three met, Serena and Veronica found out what kind of lives Raeyla and Erik led before meeting Halden.
Instead of judging the two, Halden encouraged them to share some of the adventures they had together. While Veronica scoffed at their escapades, Halden listened eagerly, asking for more details. Serena, too, found herself smiling and laughing at their tales, particularly at the misadventures of their friend Derk, who seemed to always end up in ridiculous situations.
She felt a warmth growing between them - a feeling that she was slowly becoming a part of their circle, even if she didn't quite connect with the two thieves in the same way that Halden was. The three began to speak of their excitement for Gallopolis, which led Serena to share that they were so close to the city that they should have been able to see the city lights from here.
This caused Raeyla and Halden to hurry out of the alcove to search for the glow, their eyes wide with excitement like children. Serena laughed lightly as she saw that Erik couldn't control his curiosity either, joining his friends out in the cool night air to search for the city.
As the night carried on, the group packed up the camp and settled in for the night, having already decided on the night's watch shifts. Serena took the first shift, watching the stars twinkle in the sky as the fire crackled softly nearby. She found comfort in the sight of Erdwin's Candle, the bright pink star high in the sky said to be the hero's resting place after his great battle.
A sense of duty filled her as she thought of the Luminary's original journey. Yggdrasil brought him back for a reason, and Serena knew she couldn't falter in the role the world tree had for her. Yet, in the back of her mind, she wondered if she was truly worthy of it. Her insecurities whispered that she was merely a healer, following in Veronica's shadow, but she shook the thought away. She will protect him. She must.
When Erik came to relieve her, she thanked him quietly, careful not to disturb the others. As she slipped into the bedroll next to Veronica, her eyes felt heavy, and the weight of the day pulled her into a peaceful sleep.
Morning arrived with the light of the sun gently waking her. The night had been cold, but their preparations had kept them warm. After a simple breakfast, they packed up the camp and continued their trek across the desert. The heat began to rise as the morning wore on, and Serena could sense the group's growing discomfort under the restless sun.
Thankfully, when they reached the top of a sand dune, the sight of Gallopolis greeted them - a great sandstone wall surrounding the city, with towering statues of majestic creatures flanking the entrance.
Veronica, who had been complaining about the heat for most of the morning, suddenly rushed forward with renewed energy. Serena smiled at her sister's excitement, feeling a surge of her own as she imagined the cool drink and rest waiting for them inside the city.
Though they had visited Gallopolis only a week ago, the city's size and energy still amazed her. Growing up in the quiet village of Arboria, the young healer had never been accustomed to such bustling places. Her eyes roamed over the intricate architecture, marveling at the difference in culture.
"Woah," Halden breathed, his wide eyes scanning the lively streets.
Serena turned to the group, her own excitement rising. "Oh, just look at all these people! How marvelous. I wonder if there's a festival happening?"
Veronica, ever the knowledgeable one, crossed her arms as she thought for a moment. "Hmm… Yes, of course! Gallopolis is famous for its knights and racetracks. We must have arrived just in time for the horse-racing festival!"
"Oh, how wonderful!" Serena clasped her hands together, already imagining the grand events they might witness. "We simply must watch the races while we're here!"
Halden nodded enthusiastically, but Erik, pragmatically voiced his objection. "Well, you lot can play ponies if you want. I'm off to look for the Yggdrasil branch. That's why we're here. In case you've forgotten." His tone was blunt, but Serena couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. The cyan-haired boy glanced over to Raeyla and Halden, looking for their agreement.
Halden shrugged, clearly torn between the mission and the allure of the festival. "I think it'd be fun to check out if we have the time."
Erik turned to Raeyla, who sighed and motioned toward a nearby pub. "Let's start asking around" she said, making Erik smile before he walked off, looking back to check for Raeyla before the pair blended in with the crowd. Serena felt a bit guilty that she wasn't taking this mission as seriously as Erik and Raeyla had wanted them too.
Veronica was quick to brush them aside with a scoff. "Oh, let those mood-killers go off on their own if that's what they want. Nothing's stopping us from enjoying ourselves!" She declared, her assertive tone bringing a small smile to Serena's lips.
Her sister always had a way of cutting through her doubts, though it was Serena's instinct to try and keep everyone happy.
"Well," Serena began, trying to offer a compromise, "how about we grab some lunch? There will be lots of people around the food stalls, and we can ask about the branch while we eat." She didn't want to ignore Erik and Raeyla's concerns, even if they weren't present.
"That's a good idea, Serena." Halden smiled warmly at her, and his approval made her feel just a bit more confident. He glanced around the bustling square, scanning for a suitable place. Before they could decide, a short man with light brown hair and a broad grin approached them.
Dressed in a bright purple vest over a darker undershirt and loose white pants, the man looked like he belonged to the desert city. His skin was bronzed by the sun, his eyes lively as he greeted them, "Ah, visitors! You've come for the races, yes?"
"Well… not exactly," Halden explained in a polite tone.
The man's face lit up even more, his arms spreading wide with enthusiasm. "Ah, but you have arrived at the perfect time! Soon, the Sand National will begin - our biggest race of the year! And this one is special because it celebrates Prince Faris's birthday. He will race this year for the first time! Many say he is Gallopolis's finest horseman."
"That sounds wonderful! We've truly come at the perfect time, haven't we?" Serena clapped her hands together, trying to share in the excitement despite the more pressing nature of their mission.
Veronica, always practical when it suited her, gave the stranger a quick "Thanks, mister!" before moving on. The man waved them off with a cheerful goodbye.
As they continued their stroll through the lively city, Serena couldn't help but be caught up in the festive atmosphere. Desert Knights marched through the streets, children trailing behind in admiration. Cafe's overflowed with people, and the smell of exotic spices hung in the air.
Halden stopped to pet a dog wandering near the market stalls. The sight made Serena smile, his gentle innocence radiating even in the chaotic environment. But soon, a crash interrupted the scene - the boy had accidentally backed into a jar, shattering it, and a few gold coins spilled onto the ground. Veronica wasted no time, snatching up the coins with a victorious grin. "Finders keepers!" she proclaimed.
Serena frowned slightly but said nothing. She wasn't entirely comfortable with the idea, but the jar was out in the open amongst the public, and arguing with Veronica would have only made her angry. In moments like these, it was easier to just let Veronica win.
Trying to distract herself from her inner conflict, Serena wandered further into the crowd, only to find herself face-to-face with a pair of jugglers performing tricks in the street. One of them caught her eye. "Come see us at the show tonight!" he called out between throws.
"The show?" Halden asked, appearing at Serena's side. He sounded curious.
"Yes sir! We're part of a traveling circus," the juggler said. "And tonight's performance features none other than The Great Sylvamdo!"
"Who's the 'Great Sylvando'?" Veronica asked, her tone edging on skepticism.
The juggler gasped dramatically, almost dropping his balls. "You don't know him!? Oh, you must meet him! He's just backstage - go say hello!"
Veronica still looked skeptical, but Serena's curiosity was piqued. "Let's go meet him," she suggested, excitement bubbling up at the thought of meeting a famous performer.
Veronica rolled her eyes but agreed. "Fine, but we're getting food after!"
As they made their way toward the circus tent, an elderly man approached them, his expression nervous. "Are you going to see The Great Sylvando?" he asked shyly. Serena, always kind, invited him to come along, but he refused, admitting he lacked the courage.
Inside the tent, Serena couldn't help but marvel at the man they had come to meet. Sylvando's outfit was eccentric - his slick black hair and striped jester's tunic paired with tan tights and purple shoes created a striking image. His clothes, mismatched and flamboyant, somehow fit him perfectly.
"Oh, darlings, how sweet of you to visit me!" Sylvando greeted them in a singsong voice, his gray eyes twinkling with delight. "Are you fans of the show?"
Halden, looking a little out of place, stammered, "Uh, actually, we haven't heard of it until now."
Sylvando beamed at the news. "Oh, you're in for a treat! Tonight's show will be fabulous - my best yet!"
Serena couldn't help but be charmed by the man's personality. His energy was infectious, and before she knew it, she was imagining how delightful the performance would be. Her sister, who usually mocked such things, seemed equally excited. "We should go!" Veronica exclaimed.
Serena looked to Halden, hoping he would be as enthusiastic. "It would be nice to see something like this," she offered, her insecurity lingering beneath the surface.
Halden, still accepting his new role as leader, smiled at the twins but hesitated. "Let's ask Erik and Raeyla. We might have time."
Veronica scoffed, unimpressed with his practical approach. "Oh, let them be serious. We can have a little fun, you know!"
Sylvando, chimed in with a wink. "I agree, darlings! What's an adventure without joy and laughter?"
Just then, a man from the circus called Sylvando away. He waved goodbye, promising to deliver a spectacular show that evening. With a final flourish, he disappeared into the tent, leaving the group to head back out into the city.
As they left the circus tent, the group made their way to the cafe that Veronica had picked out earlier. Serena's gaze was immediately drawn to a sign outside that said, "Try our famous Cactus Cutlet!". It piqued her curiosity - being in a foreign city, why not try the local cuisine? Veronica seemed to have the same idea, her eyes lighting up at the sign as she bounced excitedly toward the counter.
The man at the counter was short and stout, with bright red curls that matched his goatee. His bright purple shirt clashed with the tan vest he wore, and the sunglasses perched on his nose seemed unnecessary indoors. Still, his expression lit up with a smile as the customers approached.
"Good day to you! How can I help?" he greeted them, his voice brimming with enthusiasm.
"Hello! Yes, we'd like cactus cutlets, please. Halden, would you like one?" Veronica turned to ask, but before he could respond, the restaurant owner interrupted.
"I'm sorry miss, the kitchen is closed at the moment," he said apologetically, "I've been working to improve the recipe, you see. I am certain that a golden globule would intensify the flavor, but acquiring the ingredient is easier said than done. The golden globes - the cacti they are made from - are extremely vicious."
Veronica's cheerful expression instantly darkened into a scowl.
Serena felt a pang of disappointment settle in her stomach. She had been looking forward to trying something new, and knowing they might not be back in the area made the missed opportunity even more of a shame. Just as she was about to suggest they move on, the man brightened up.
"Ah! But perhaps a group of strong adventurers such as yourselves might be willing to assist me?" he said, leaning in eagerly. "If you could hunt down a golden globe for me, I'd happily reward you all with free cactus cutlets!"
The offer wasn't bad - helping him out would get them a free meal. Serena glanced at Halden and could tell he was considering it. But before she could say anything, Veronica scoffed, crossing her arms and glaring at the older man. "Oh, please! You just want free labor!" she said, her sharp tone cutting through the man's enthusiasm.
Halden leaned down to reason with her in a gentle voice. "We'd be getting the ingredients in exchange for free food. I don't think it's a bad deal."
Serena watched them bicker, torn between their arguments. It wouldn't be too difficult to fetch the ingredient, and she did want to try the cactus cutlet. But then she thought of Erik and Raeyla, who were probably still hard at work investigating the branch. The guilt of indulging in a side quest weighed on her. "We do have the search for the branch…" she said quietly, though the reluctance in her voice betrayed her desire for a break.
Halden seemed to pick up on her inner conflict and, after a moment of thought, offered a compromise. "How about this - we'll keep an eye out for a golden globe while we're out in the desert. If we come across one, we'll bring it back for you."
Serena turned to Veronica, who, though still skeptical, didn't argue further. The man at the counter lit up with excitement. "Wonderful! Oh praise the sands! I can assure you that if you find one, you will be playing a crucial role in culinary history!" he exclaimed with dramatic flair.
They left the cafe and wandered through the busy streets once more, Serena scanning the crowds in hopes of finding another place to eat. Her stomach rumbled in protest when she suddenly spotted Raeyla and Erik across the square, speaking to an older man near another cafe. The man had striking blue hair and wore a red sultan's hat with a white tunic, layered beneath a long blue vest.
Serena motioned to Halden and Veronica, who followed her as they approached the conversation.
"A special branch?" the older man was saying as they neared. "Now that you mention it, I do remember hearing about some valuable branch that the sultan owns. Maybe you should ask him about it."
Erik and Raeyla thanked him and watched as he walked back into the crowd of people. The two then turned to greet their companions.
"Well, looks like we're heading to the palace," Erik said with a shrug, his casual tone making it sound far simpler than it was, confusing Serena.
Raeyla eyed the towering palace in the distance. "Sounds like it, What if the Sultan does have the branch? I doubt he'd be willing to part with it easily."
Halden thought for a moment, his expression calm and thoughtful. "Let's talk to him first and see where that leads," he said with a reassuring smile. He came across to her as an optimistic person, which helped ease Serena's anxieties.
Raeyla, however, wasn't convinced. "I don't know… I doubt the Sultan's going to listen to a group of strangers from outside the city." she said, looking to Halden and then Erik with a knowing look. Serena looked over to see Erik looking back at her, making Serena curious, wondering what the two could be thinking.
Serena shook the thoughts from her mind however, and shifted her gaze to the palace, her heart beginning to pound in her chest. She wasn't sure how they were going to convince the Sultan to hand over such a valuable possession. What if the Sultan turned them away? Or worse, what if they angered him like Halden had done in Heliodor? She tried to calm her nerves, focusing on staying optimistic like Halden, but it wasn't easy.
As they made their way toward the palace, Serena tried to forget the rumbling in her stomach and cast one last hopeful glance toward the tall gates, silently praying that the Sultan would hear them out.
~~AN~~ Hi! Sorry that took so long, I was so torn on how to write Serena that this took a lot of rewrites. As an update, I'm currently visiting family in another country, so I've got time to write now, but when I head back in early November I'll have to seriously get down and finish the last term of my studies. Final assignments are due on 1 December and then after that I am free to go back on my originally intended schedule for both this Fanfic and any short stories I have planned. I'm so sorry these have gotten delayed, but as I've said before, I am continuing on to tell Raeyla's journey! Thank you for reading and know that I've already got the next few planned out! It's just about adding in the right words! ~~