Chapter 42

The world beyond Sydren's walls unfolded before Ysabel, a breathtaking panorama vastly different from the limited landscapes she knew. Her week-long journey had been a whirlwind of unfamiliar sights and sounds, each vista more captivating than the last. Ysabel, more than anyone else in the expedition, reveled in the changing scenery, her initial enthusiasm undimmed. But as they neared the border of Vahlkiro, a subtle unease settled over her. The characteristic lash trees, once abundant, dwindled, are replaced by a stark, barren expanse.

"Halt!"

A knight's sharp command sliced through the air. The procession of wagons and carriages ground to a halt, a hush descending upon the travelers.

"What's the matter? It's still daylight—" Ysabel murmured to herself, her thoughts interrupted by a knight on horseback beside her carriage. He snorted, his disdain palpable.

"This is precisely why we can't have an outsider on this expedition."

He sneered, his words a harsh slap that jolted Ysabel from her reverie.

"Continuing further is too risky, especially as night approaches. This land is a breeding ground for monsters; we don't know what will attack or when. Daylight travel is our only safe option."

His gaze swept the desolate landscape, assessing potential threats.

Ysabel bit her lip, swallowing her retort. She sank deeper into her stiff seat, the long hours taking their toll. To her relief, the knight ignored her further, instead focusing on soothing his restless steed.

Ysabel longed to stretch her aching legs, but the confines of the carriage offered no respite. She shifted her position restlessly, settling into a cramped, uncomfortable posture. Just as she was about to shift again, a gentle knock on the small window brought a smile to her face.

"Sir Hector!" She exclaimed, her voice brimming with delight.

Hector's brow furrowed, but a reluctant smile played on his lips. "My, I didn't realize you were so eager to see me."

"Well, it's hard to see you at the back," Ysabel replied, inching closer to the window.

"True enough. How are you holding up?" He asked.

"The journey's been... nice,"

She replied, her voice hesitant.

"Nice? Everyone knows you're like a child on a field trip,"

Hector teased, his words causing Ysabel's cheeks to flush.

"But let's be clear, m'lady, this is far from a field trip."

"I know, Sir Hector. I understand the dangers,"

Ysabel said, nervously twisting a strand of her wavy hair. Hector shot a stern look at the knight guarding their carriage.

"Someone needs a lesson in keeping their mouth shut."

Hector announced loudly enough for everyone within earshot to hear.

The knight who had earlier insulted Ysabel visibly flinched, his mouth opening and closing like a fish, unable to form a response.

"Uh, Sir Hector—" Ysabel worried that she had inadvertently ignited a conflict, trying to de-escalate the situation. Hector, however, remained locked in a challenging gaze with his fellow knight even though the latter is already cowering from him.

"Aleric summoned you, by the way,"

Hector continued, ignoring Ysabel's apprehension.

"A tent will be set up for you and Lilah. The healer's worried you'll turn into a wilted vegetable from being crammed in there." Without waiting for a response, Hector opened the carriage door. Seeing Ysabel remain motionless, he impatiently knocked again, snapping her out of her stupor.