Chapter 13: The Journey Begins

The sun had barely risen, yet the Everhart estate was already alive with movement. The crisp morning air carried the scent of damp earth and polished steel as knights and squires worked tirelessly to finalize preparations for the journey ahead. Horses neighed as they were saddled, banners displaying the Everhart crest fluttered in the wind, and the rhythmic clanking of armor echoed through the courtyard.

Leon stood beside his black stallion, Astra, fastening the straps of his travel cloak. The weight of his sword at his hip felt heavier than usual—not from its physical weight, but from the significance of this mission. This wasn't a training exercise or a noble's ceremonial escort. This was war, though they had yet to fully understand the enemy they were facing.

Across from him, Sophia ran a sharpening stone along the edge of her rapier, her expression calm but focused. Rachel, already armored, swung her greatsword onto her shoulder with a cocky grin.

"Finally, we're heading out," Rachel said with a stretch. "I was getting tired of sitting in court, listening to old men argue about things they're too scared to act on."

Sophia sighed. "That 'bickering,' as you call it, is what keeps the kingdom from descending into chaos."

"Maybe, but it's also why problems like this fester in the first place," Rachel countered.

Leon half-listened to their usual back-and-forth, but his mind was elsewhere. His father had always taught him that strength was more than just skill with a sword—it was the ability to make decisions when others hesitated. This mission would be his first true test.

Their mother, Lady Eleanor, approached with a composed expression, but Leon could see the concern in her eyes. Her gaze swept over them as if memorizing their faces, as if she wanted to carve this moment into her heart before they departed.

"You've all trained for this," she said, her voice steady yet warm. "But remember, battles are not won by strength alone. Strategy is just as important. Trust one another, and trust your instincts."

Leon nodded. "We will, Mother."

Alistair, their father, stood beside her, his presence commanding yet calm. "We still don't know the full nature of these attacks. Keep your guard up at all times."

Leon met his father's eyes and nodded again. He knew what was unspoken—this mission wasn't just about proving himself. It was about ensuring their house remained strong in the eyes of the court. Any failure, even a minor one, would be used against them.

The sound of hooves against stone drew their attention as a new arrival approached. A tall figure in royal-blue armor rode toward them with a disciplined posture, his steed a pristine white stallion. Prince Darius, heir to the throne, brought his horse to a halt and dismounted with practiced ease.

His sharp gaze swept over them before settling on Leon. "I see you're all prepared."

Leon stood straight, meeting the prince's eyes without hesitation. "We are."

Darius studied him for a moment before giving a small nod. "Good. Because once we leave these walls, hesitation can mean death."

His words weren't cruel, but they carried the weight of experience. The prince had led numerous military campaigns and had earned a reputation as a decisive and formidable leader. Riding alongside him would be both an opportunity and a challenge.

Rachel, never one to be intimidated, smirked. "We'll be fine, Your Highness. I think the enemy should be more worried than we are."

Darius arched an eyebrow but didn't comment. Instead, he turned to Alistair. "We should move. The longer we delay, the more ground we lose."

Alistair nodded in agreement and turned to his assembled forces.

"Knights of Everhart, we ride for the western border!"

A unified shout rang out, and the convoy began to move.

Fifty knights rode in formation, their silver-plated armor gleaming in the morning light. The Everhart banner—a golden stag on a black and crimson field—waved proudly in the wind as they departed through the massive iron gates of their estate.

Leon urged Astra forward, settling into position beside his father and Prince Darius. Behind him, Rachel and Sophia rode side by side, their expressions a mix of excitement and focus.

The road ahead was long, stretching toward the western frontier where an unknown enemy awaited. Though the journey had just begun, Leon could feel the shift in the air. This was more than just another noble expedition.

This was the beginning of something far greater than he could yet comprehend.

And he would not falter.