Stolen Hearts

The days following Aria's triumph in the Trials of the Ancients were a whirlwind of activity. Skyhaven buzzed with preparations for war, the clang of hammers on anvils and the shouts of warriors training filling the air from dawn to dusk.

Dawn broke over Skyhaven, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold. Aria stood at the edge of the plateau, her eyes fixed on the rising sun. Today would determine not just her fate, but the fate of her entire kingdom.

The higher they climbed into the mountains, the more treacherous their path became. Narrow ledges gave way to icy passes, and the air grew thin and biting. Aria pushed on, her determination fueled by the promise of allies and the chance to finally turn the tide against the usurper.

They set off northward, The Raven scouting ahead while Aria and Tug followed. The terrain grew steadily more rugged as they approached the foothills of the northern mountains. Aria's body ached from her wounds and the relentless pace, but she pushed on without complaint.

As the last rays of sunlight faded from the sky, Aria found herself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions. Relief at their unexpected salvation warred with suspicion and grief for her fallen companions.

The river's relentless current eventually began to slow, forcing Aria and her companions to make their way to the shore. Exhausted and soaked to the bone, they dragged themselves onto the rocky bank, gasping for air.

As dawn broke over Millbrook, Aria and her companions prepared for their journey north. The town stirred to life around them, oblivious to the momentous departure taking place in its midst. Kelvin had secured a pair of sturdy horses and a small cart, loaded with supplies gleaned ...

The days that followed in Millbrook were a welcome respite for Aria and her small band of loyalists. The modest inn on the outskirts of town became their temporary sanctuary, a place where they could finally catch their breath after years of constant flight.

As night enveloped Millbrook, Aria and Kelvin made their way through the narrow, cobblestone streets. The moon cast long shadows, and every rustle of leaves or distant footstep set their nerves on edge. They arrived at the designated meeting place – a dilapidated barn on the outskirts of town.