And with that, the knight commanders, the Champion-Apparent, and the professor quickly gathered their things for the journey. Trusting them to care for themselves, the Lord Steward appointed—at least for now—the professor as the official ambassador should rumors prove true, between the group and the lost heir. As the group assembled, whispers and gestures from the crowd rippled through the courtyard. Some were aware of their mission, while others speculated and passed on the news, their bright eyes lighting up and smiles spreading across their faces.

Once past the castle grounds and at the final gate of Olenta, a small crowd had gathered to show their support. Clapping and cheering, the people raised their voices in hope. Could this be the moment that finally brought the rightful ruler to the throne—the ruler that Solarin had surely blessed? Beaming faces seemed to believe that this journey would fulfill that hope.

Leaving the city behind, the group continued on the official road, turning north toward their first destination: Greypeak Watch. The weather itself seemed a sign from the God of Light, with warm sunshine casting a soft glow, as a flock of crows swept across the partially cloudy sky. But as they ventured closer to the mountains, the wind picked up, carrying a bite to the air—a subtle foreshadowing of the rugged, snow-covered terrain that awaited them, along with the hardy people who called the mountains home.