As the weary travelers settled in for a brief respite, Grayson took a seat beside the young boy, finding solace in the flickering glow of the campfire. Leaning in close, she spoke in gentle tones, her words a soothing balm against the backdrop of their arduous journey.
"Caladon," Grayson began, her voice soft yet filled with a quiet reverence. "It's a kingdom unlike any other, a place where dreams take flight and hope blossoms in the hearts of all who dwell there."
She cast a sideways glance at the boy, a faint smile gracing her lips. "You and my brother Thomas would have gotten along famously," she remarked, a hint of nostalgia coloring her words. "He's a few years older than you, but he's just as adventurous and curious as you are."
Grayson's thoughts drifted to her brother, his infectious laughter and boundless energy a constant source of joy in her life. "Thomas has always had a way of finding beauty in the simplest of things," she continued, her voice tinged with affection. "He's like a magnet for adventure, always seeking out new experiences and embracing life to the fullest."
She described the bustling streets of Caladon, painting a vivid picture of the city's vibrant markets and bustling thoroughfares. "The people of Caladon are a diverse and welcoming bunch," she explained, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. "You'll meet merchants hawking their wares, artisans showcasing their craftsmanship, and storytellers spinning tales of heroes and legends."
Grayson paused for a moment, allowing the boy to absorb her words before continuing. "And then there's the capital city," she added, her voice filled with awe. "It's a sprawling metropolis teeming with life and energy, where every corner holds a new adventure waiting to unfold."
As the campfire crackled softly in the background, Grayson fell silent, lost in thought. Beside her, the boy listened intently, his eyes wide with wonder at the prospect of their upcoming journey.
With a gentle smile, Grayson rose to her feet, extending a hand to the boy. "Come," she said warmly. "We need to rest for a bit and go have food. Let's go check if the food is ready so that we can replenish our energy for the days ahead. And I should go and check where the captain is, you know."