Chapter 9: Departure Preparations

The Everhart estate was abuzz with movement as preparations for the journey to the capital of Eryndor went into full swing. Servants scurried through the halls, carrying trunks of clothing, provisions, and other necessities, while knights of the household guard inspected carriages and weapons. The air crackled with anticipation and urgency, and amidst it all, Leon found himself feeling both excited and overwhelmed.

Standing in the grand hall, he watched as footmen polished the family crest emblazoned on their carriage—a majestic silver griffin soaring against a crimson backdrop. His mind wandered to the royal summons, wondering why the king had called for them so suddenly. Was it truly about the Western Territories, or was there something deeper at play?

"Lost in thought again, are we?"

Leon turned to see Rachel striding toward him, her long, golden hair pulled back into an elegant braid. She was dressed in a traveling gown of deep blue, with silver embroidery that accentuated her noble status. Her piercing green eyes sparkled with amusement as she nudged him lightly with her elbow.

"I'm just... thinking about what's waiting for us in the capital," Leon admitted, sighing. "It feels like everything is changing too fast."

Rachel chuckled. "Change is a part of life, little brother. Besides, you'll love the capital. It's nothing like our quiet little estate."

Sophia's voice chimed in from behind them. "True. The capital is a place of intrigue, power, and opportunity." She approached gracefully, her emerald green gown flowing with each step. Unlike Rachel's energetic presence, Sophia radiated calm elegance, her every movement carefully measured. "But it's also a place where one misstep can cost everything."

Leon frowned. "You're not exactly making me feel better about this trip."

Sophia smiled softly. "I only mean to say that you should be careful. The nobility of Eryndor are... different from the ones here. Many of them see alliances as mere tools, and weakness is not easily forgiven."

Leon absorbed her words, feeling the weight of their implications. "I guess I have a lot to learn."

Rachel grinned, throwing an arm around his shoulders. "Don't worry! You've got us. We won't let you embarrass yourself... too much."

Before Leon could retort, their mother, Lady Eleanor, descended the grand staircase, her regal presence commanding immediate attention. Dressed in a flowing silver gown, her gaze was sharp yet warm. "Are the three of you ready?"

Rachel straightened. "Of course, Mother. Everything is prepared."

Eleanor's eyes settled on Leon, and she gave him a small smile. "This will be your first time at court, Leon. Remember what I've taught you. Confidence is key."

Leon nodded. "I'll do my best."

"Good." She glanced at the towering doors leading outside. "Your father is speaking with the household guard. We leave at dawn."

---

Later that evening, Leon found himself in the family's private library, staring at an old map of the kingdom laid out across the table. The capital, Arvendel, was marked at the center, surrounded by smaller cities and trade routes that crisscrossed the kingdom like veins. He traced his fingers along the parchment, trying to imagine what it would be like to walk its bustling streets and grand halls.

A soft knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. He looked up to see Sir Reynard standing at the threshold, his grizzled features stoic as always. "May I join you, young master?"

Leon quickly stood. "Of course, Sir Reynard."

The knight stepped inside, his heavy boots echoing in the quiet chamber. He glanced at the map before looking at Leon with his piercing steel-gray eyes. "You're anxious."

Leon sighed, sitting back down. "Is it that obvious?"

Reynard folded his arms. "To me, yes. You've been preparing for this your whole life, Leon. Training your mind, your body, and your spirit. The capital is just another challenge."

Leon hesitated before speaking. "It's not the capital itself that worries me... It's living up to everyone's expectations."

Reynard studied him for a moment before placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "Listen well, lad. You'll never satisfy every expectation thrown at you. The only ones that matter are the expectations you set for yourself."

Leon looked up, meeting Reynard's unwavering gaze.

"You're an Everhart," Reynard continued. "Stand tall, fight with honor, and make your own mark. That's all that matters."

Leon felt a surge of resolve in his chest. "Thank you, Sir Reynard."

The knight nodded gruffly before turning toward the door. "Get some rest. Tomorrow marks the beginning of something far greater than you can imagine."

---

Dawn arrived in a soft haze of golden light, and the Everhart estate grounds were bustling with final preparations. Horses neighed restlessly as stablehands secured them to the ornate carriages, and knights clad in the Everhart colors of crimson and silver stood at attention.

Leon stood beside his sisters, adjusting the collar of his finely tailored traveling coat. Rachel, as usual, looked effortlessly excited, while Sophia maintained a serene composure. Their father, Duke Alistair, gave final orders to the captain of their guard, his presence commanding and firm.

Lady Eleanor approached, giving Leon a once-over. "You look handsome, my dear."

Leon smiled sheepishly. "Thanks, Mother."

Alistair soon turned to his family, his voice cutting through the morning air. "Let us depart."

With that, they boarded their respective carriages. Leon sat with Rachel and Sophia, staring out the window as the estate slowly faded into the distance. He felt a mixture of nostalgia and nervous anticipation—this was the only home he had ever known, and now he was heading toward an unknown future.

Rachel nudged him. "Cheer up, Leon. The adventure's just beginning."

Sophia nodded in agreement. "And who knows? You may find your place in the capital sooner than you think."

Leon watched the rolling hills and forests pass by, a quiet determination settling within him.

Whatever awaited him in Arvendel, he was ready to face it.