Doubt, cold and keen, gnawed at me as I approached the farm. Had I made a grave error in trusting him? The book, filled with indecipherable ancient script, felt useless against the rising tide of uncertainty.

“Strap everything tight!” Noctis’s command sliced through the pre-dawn fog. His team, a mix of three unfamiliar faces and himself, were a flurry of activity, preparing for departure.

Noctis turned as I drew near. “Good morning, Lyra. Glad you could join us. We’ll be riding horseback, I hope that’s acceptable?”

Ten years since I last rode, the thought surfaced, bringing a flicker of apprehension. “Good morning. Yes, that’s fine.”

“Come meet your horse,” Noctis offered, leading me to a beautiful painted mare. “This is Peyton.” She was a striking white with splashes of brown, her mane a flowing cascade of pristine white. She possessed heterochromia; one eye a startling blue, the other a warm brown. I extended my hand, and she nudged her smooth nose against my palm, a silent acknowledgment.

“Looks like you’ve made a friend,” Noctis chuckled, already turning to lead the way. “Since we’re all here, introductions are in order before we get going. Follow me.”

He gestured towards a young man, warm brown hair pulled back in a low ponytail, delicate wisps framing a face that sparked a faint, nagging familiarity. His genuine hazel gaze held a warmth that tugged at my memory, specifically the slight hesitation in his smile, though I couldn’t quite place him. Where have I seen that expression before? “Hi, nice to meet you. I’m Finnian,” he offered. “Maps, creature lore, and… well, ancient texts are my specialties.” A thought sparked – perhaps he could help with the cryptic book – but I dismissed it for the moment. “Weapons are not really my thing,” he added, nervously adjusting the strap of a map pouch at his hip, a brief shadow of worry crossing his features. I made a mental note to keep an eye on him; he seemed somewhat out of his element.

By now, everyone had gathered around. I stepped forward. “Lyra,” I stated, my voice clear and concise, meeting each of their looks in turn. “Alchemist. And my weapons of choice are a sword and dagger.” Finnian’s eyes widened slightly as I spoke.

A girl whose expression seemed to light up the space began to speak next, her small hands clasped together before her. She was surprisingly petite, but her long, blonde hair, braided into a neat crown and flowing down her shoulders into two plaits, shimmered with an ethereal quality. Her eyes, a vibrant green with flecks of gold that seemed to shift in the light, held a knowing, almost ancient warmth. “Hi, I’m Liora,” her voice was light but carried an underlying steadiness. “I’ll be your healer. And don’t underestimate me, I’m more nimble than I look.”

Noctis nodded, a hint of respect clear in his regard. “She’s saved more of my people than I can remember. And she’s not kidding about being quick. I’ve seen her dance through the thick of it to keep us alive.”

Liora’s cheeks flushed, and she gave him a radiant smile. “Thank you,” she murmured, shifting her weight slightly, swaying gently back and forth.

The gentle moment was interrupted by an abrupt clearing of a throat. A man, radiating an almost palpable mystery, stood before us. He looked to be in his early twenties, incredibly handsome, with glossy black hair that fell in a deliberately careless style. His violet irises, keen and intense, swept over the group. His left ear was adorned with a scattering of piercings, including a single, long earring that brushed his shoulder. The tattoos covering his visible skin held an almost luminous quality; they weren’t just ink but seemed to possess an inner radiance. He gave a casual wave, a faint shimmer of arcane energy momentarily disturbing the air around his fingertips, and smiled, a knowing glint in his violet depths. “Adrix,” he introduced himself, his tone smooth and resonant. “I’ll be handling the magic for the group… and ensuring our success.” Someone’s full of himself, my lips formed a half-smirk. I’ve met his type before.

“Now that we know each other,” Noctis declared briskly, “let’s discuss the route.” Finnian carefully unraveled a well-worn map from his pouch, its edges frayed and marked with countless journeys, and spread it on a nearby rock. He gestured for us to gather around. Tracing a path with a slender finger, he announced, “We’re here,” tapping Riverwood, “and we’ll take the main roads to Glens Crossing.” Glens Crossing… perhaps we can find information about the recent attack there, my mind raced. “We’ll have to stay the night; it’s a full day’s travel, even if we minimize breaks. From there, we continue on the main roads for another day, then briefly leave them to camp for the night. The next half-day will take us back to the main road and on to Pillard Forest.”

Following Finnian’s explanation, Noctis laid out the plan. “Essentially, we’re heading south,” he stated, his gaze sweeping over the group. “Should be easy enough, but stay alert.” He glanced around. “Everyone, finish up what you’re doing.” Then, turning his attention to me, “Lyra, start packing. Payton has a satchel attached to her saddle; feel free to add anything you need.” The group dispersed, each person moving with focused purpose.

I nodded, a slight frown creasing my brow, and approached Payton. She stood patiently, her ears flicking slightly as I called her name softly, letting her know I was there. “Just a few things for your satchel, if that’s alright, girl?” I murmured. To keep things discreet, I conjured the items into existence. Two shimmering mana potions materialized first, followed by five ripe apples. Payton’s focus was immediately drawn to the fruit, and she let out a gentle puff of air, clearly requesting one. I offered her an apple, and she crunched into it with evident delight. “Enjoy your treat,” I said, stroking her neck. She responded with a soft nicker and a gentle bob of her head. Lastly, I summoned the ancient book and a few other essential items, resolving to consult Finnian about the text later.

The sun had climbed high in the East, burning away the last vestiges of the morning fog. “Everyone, mount up,” Noctis called out. “We’re heading out. I’ll lead, Finnian, you’re behind me.” I watched, a twinge of apprehension, as Liora, despite her petite stature, moved with an almost fluid motion as she mounted her horse. Ten years… can I even do this? Taking a deep breath, I carefully placed my left foot in the stirrup, and with a slightly wobbly push, swung my right leg over. Okay, not as smooth as Liora, but I’m up, I reassured myself, patting Payton’s neck. “Good girl.”

Noctis’s regard swept over us, a silent assessment, before he gave a curt nod. “Let’s move,” he commanded, the earlier playful tone replaced by focused anticipation. He urged his horse forward, and we followed, maintaining a tight, almost single-file formation: Finnian, Adrix, me, and Liora close behind.

I’d lost track of time; my backside was screaming in protest from the relentless saddle, the smell of warm leather and horse mingling with the dusty air. Definitely not built for this, I shifted uncomfortably, trying to find a position that offered even a sliver of relief. The silence was broken only by the rhythmic thud of hooves and the occasional creak of tack. Not even a whisper of a breeze stirred the stagnant heat. What have I gotten myself into? Mentally groaning, a wave of regret washed over me. Just as I was about to give in to the discomfort, the pace slowed. Noctis glanced back. “There’s a small clearing with a stream up ahead,” he announced. “Let’s give the horses a break to graze and drink.”

A quiet sigh of relief escaped Liora’s lips, followed by a whispered, “I think my backside is protesting louder than these horses.” I almost chuckled. It was strangely comforting to know I wasn’t the only one suffering.

We began dismounting, and I had to physically coax my stiff legs into a standing position. Then came the first step. Oh, the agony. It was less a step and more of a waddle, a painful shuffle that sent a jolt of protest through my entire lower body. I grimaced, my teeth clenched, as if each minuscule movement was a monumental effort. Shifting my weight, I let out a low groan that I tried to pass off as stretching.

Carefully, I opened Payton’s satchel and retrieved two apples. The afternoon sun beat down relentlessly, and my stomach rumbled in protest. A large, inviting tree offered a patch of cool shade. Perfect for a quick break and snack. Leaning against the rough bark as comfortably as possible, I took a large bite of my apple.

“So, Lyra,” a voice startled me. I nearly choked, apple lodged in my throat. She really wasn’t kidding about being quick, I noted, impressed despite myself.

“Just checking in,” Liora offered, a teasing smile playing on her lips. “My backside is staging a full-blown rebellion. Surely I’m not the only one?”

I nodded, swallowing the stubborn chunk of apple with a gulp. “No, you’re not alone. It’s been a while since I’ve been in a saddle,” I admitted. Reaching into my pocket, I offered her the remaining apple. She must be hungry. “Here, have this one.”

“Oh, wonderful! Thank you!” she exclaimed, her expression bright as she took it. She bit into the apple, savoring the taste before asking, “So, what brought you on this mission?”

I hesitated, my mind searching for a plausible explanation. Looking down at the sun-baked ground, I began slowly, “It’s… complicated. I’m hoping it’ll answer some questions I have. Plus, it’s a break from my usual routine.” I looked up; her gaze was steady, filled with genuine curiosity. “And you? What made you join?”

“Adventures,” she declared, her eyes twinkling. “I’m not exactly the sit-still type.” I noticed her gaze briefly stray towards Finnian. “But mostly, I want to keep everyone safe. I’m good at what I do.” A delicate blush crept up her cheeks. Curious about the blush and the glance towards Finnian. There’s more to that story.

My tone turned inquisitive. “You and Finnian seem to know each other well,” I observed, tilting my head slightly. “How long have you two been acquainted?” I watched her closely, curious to see if her reaction would reveal more than she intended.

She brushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear, her voice softening. “We’ve known each other since childhood. Our parents were close, so we grew up together, playing in the fields. Though Finnian always preferred the company of books.” A flicker of worry, clear and piercing, crossed her face. “He’s never been physically strong. I’ve had to mend him more times than I care to remember.” Her voice dropped, a hint of something darker entering her tone. “He went to the capital, full of ambition, when we were young…and came back barely alive. He was gone for an entire year. He doesn’t speak of what happened there, so I don’t ask. Now, he accompanies Noctis on missions, because his knowledge is invaluable, especially around here.”

Offering a gentle smile, I lightly squeezed her shoulder. It felt odd, trying to offer comfort, but I hoped it helped. “He’s fortunate to have you looking out for him,” I said softly. Noticing the others gathering the horses, I added, “We should join them. But if you’d like, we could continue this conversation while we ride. It’s been rather quiet.”

Her eyes lit up, a genuine warmth spreading across her features. “I’d love that. I was hoping we could become friends.”

As I took hold of Payton’s reins, Adrix’s impatient question drifted over. “How much longer till Glens Crossing?”

Finnian answered, his voice steady. “We’ll be there before anyone’s starving.” Sounds like someone’s eager to get there.

We resumed our positions, the line of riders forming once more, but this time, Liora and I were deep in conversation. The oppressive silence had finally been banished. This is a welcome change, a sense of lightness filled me.

Liora possessed a captivating way of speaking, her cadence a melodious blend of warmth and quiet authority. She carried herself with an air of effortless ease, drawing you in with every word. I found myself eager to hear what stories she held.

“You know,” she began, her expression alight with a spark of adrenaline, “there was this one time we were traveling through Elderain. A vast, verdant plain, usually peaceful. But a nearby village had been raided, and we were on our way to help. Then, out of nowhere, we were ambushed. Shadowy figures materialized from the tall grasses, their blades glinting wickedly in the fading light. Noctis’s sword flashed, a silver arc cutting through the air, his men forming a tight defensive ring. A hulking creature, its form a blur of rage, smashed through our lines, sending men sprawling with sickening thuds. I darted through the chaos, weaving between the clash of steel and the cries of the wounded, patching up gashes and broken bones. Then, an unseen presence slammed into me. It was like fighting shadows, a cold, empty void pressing against me. I tried to blind it, but it was like trying to push back a ghost. Noctis, sensing the danger, lunged forward, his blade perfectly precise. With one swift, decisive blow, the creature fell, its invisible body hitting the dirt with a hollow, bone-jarring thud.”

“What was it?” I asked, my voice laced with a mix of awe and dread. “I’ve never encountered anything invisible.” Even Adrix was listening now, his attention fixed on us, a flicker of curiosity in his violet depths.

She shook her head, a shiver running down her spine. “We didn’t know. Just… invisible. It was chilling. It moved like a whisper, a phantom in the twilight. Hey, look! It’s the Glens Crossing sign. Almost there.” Seems like I shouldn’t pry further on that subject.

“Food and a real bed,” I remarked, my tone laced with sarcasm. “Finnian was right, we won’t go hungry.”

Liora scoffed, giving a playful roll of her eyes. “Easy for you to say. I’m practically a walking skeleton.”

The sun was finally giving up the fight, painting the sky in fiery hues as Glens Crossing, a cluster of buildings silhouetted against the horizon, came into view. Let’s hope this place holds some answers, or that Guild Leader sent me on a wild goose chase, I thought, a weary sigh escaping my lips.