The gentle breeze, carrying a hint of green grass, swept across the vast, endless grassland. This expanse, known as the Kazhamara Plain, came alive only once a year during the summer months. In this easternmost region of Elysion, Steppecrines, majestic and hardy creatures, roamed freely under the open sky. Their thick, shimmering coats adapted effortlessly to the seasonal extremes, and their thunderous gallop echoed across the plains. Revered by the nomadic tribes as sacred companions and spiritual guides, the Steppecrines symbolized endurance and freedom.

The nomadic tribesmen, clad in vibrant, flowing robes, danced joyously around their yurts. The rhythmic beat of their drums and the melodic hum of their songs mingled with the rustling grass, creating a harmonious symphony of life and celebration.

Seated atop a wooden carriage adorned with the banner of the Elysionsonn royal family, Ellie Camberwell’s silver hair shimmered in the sunlight, tousled gently by the wind. Her observant gaze swept across the lively plains, her expression a mixture of calm and focus.

“Vice Captain, Ellie,” a voice called from her left, pulling her attention away. Ellie turned to see Cassian Alma, a young girl with hazel hair braided neatly to one side. Her bright eyes reflected eagerness. “Are we still far from the Kazhamara settlement?” she asked in an animated tone. “I can’t wait to meet Lady Audries!”

Before Ellie could respond, a loud yawn broke the conversation. From the back of the carriage, a man stood, stretching lazily as he scratched his short buzz-cut hair. “Yo,” he said casually, his voice tinged with sleep.

Ellie shot him a sardonic look. “Looks like someone had a good nap,” she remarked dryly.

Jun’de leaned against the carriage frame with a grin, unfazed. “The journey’s long. Might as well make the most of it,” he replied, shrugging as if to absolve himself of guilt.

Another voice rang out from the back of the carriage. “We’re almost there!” Rendy’s head popped through the canvas, a mischievous grin on his face. In his hand, a faintly glowing artifact shimmered—the Petra Mirror. This ring-forged device allowed him to observe anything within its reflective range, proving invaluable for scouting and surveillance.

“Everything’s clear,” Rendy announced with confidence.

Cassian crossed her arms, a slight frown creasing her brow. “I still can’t believe the Captain isn’t here with us,” she muttered. “This mission seems important enough to warrant his presence.”

Ellie glanced at Cassian, her voice steady and reassuring. “Hans has responsibilities far beyond this mission,” she explained. “His ring… it’s one of the Emperor Rings. That carries a weight none of us can truly understand. He’s involved in something critical right now, so it’s up to us to make him proud by completing this mission without incident. Ensuring Lady Audries reaches the royal capital safely is our priority.”

Jun’de added with a smirk, leaning casually against the carriage. “Hans trusts us, and that’s enough. Let’s not give him a reason to regret it.”

Ellie nodded but glanced thoughtfully at Cassian, her voice calm but resolute. “This isn’t just about the king’s marriage. Lady Audries was originally intended to marry King Chris' older twin brother, but the late prince…” Her voice softened, her gaze distant. “He suffered a devastating fate during the Battle of Verdant Expanse, protecting King Chris from the primordial titan, Atlas. Even so, it’s no secret that the king has always favored Lady Audries.”

Jun’de’s expression turned serious as he chimed in. “Their union isn’t just about love. It’s a strategic alliance. With their marriage, the kingdom’s power will extend eastward, bringing stability to the Kazhamara Plain. The tribes will gain the capital’s protection, and the kingdom will gain the strength of these people.”

Ellie’s silver hair gleamed in the sunlight as she fixed her gaze on the horizon. “It’s a union for the greater good,” she said softly, her tone carrying conviction. “Let’s make sure we do our part.”

Jun’de leaned back against the carriage wall, arms crossed, as the rhythmic creak of the wheels filled the silence. “But this Lady Audries,” Rendy began, a mischievous grin playing on his lips, “she’s surely a character.”

Cassian turned her curious gaze toward him. “What do you mean?”

“I’ve read about her a couple of times before we were assigned this mission,” Rendy said, adjusting his grip on the Petra Mirror. “She’s quite famous—not just as the daughter of the Kazhamara chief, but for her fearsome power. They call her the ‘Princess of Scarlet Threads.’”

“Scarlet Threads?” Cassian echoed, intrigued.

Rendy nodded. “It’s said she can see or predict the future. The people of the plains believe she can glimpse the red threads of destiny that connect all living things. It’s how she’s guided her tribe for years, avoiding countless disasters.”

Jun’de raised an eyebrow, leaning forward with newfound interest. “You’re telling me she has some kind of clairvoyant ability?”

“More than that,” Rendy replied. “She bears a unique Keeper Ring, the Ring of Kismet. It grants her visions of the future and the ability to sense impending threats. Thanks to her foresight, the Kazhamara Plains have avoided titan invasions for generations. Her tribe always moves before danger strikes.”

Cassian’s expression softened, tinged with worry. “That’s… remarkable. But what will happen to her people when she leaves? If she’s married to the capital, can they still rely on her guidance?”

Rendy shrugged, his smile fading slightly. “That’s the question, isn’t it? Her absence could leave the Kazhamara vulnerable. But on the other hand, her union with the king could bring stronger defenses to the plains.”

Jun’de frowned, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. “Her power isn’t just valuable on the steppes—it could be a game-changer at court. I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s part of why the late king arranged this marriage in the first place.”

Ellie, who had been listening silently, finally spoke. Her voice was steady, yet carried a note of admiration. “Lady Audries isn’t just a political asset. She’s a symbol of hope for her people, and soon, she’ll be the same for the kingdom. It’s up to us to ensure she arrives safely in Aurelia and fulfills her destiny—whatever that may be.”

The group fell silent, the weight of their mission settling over them. Ahead, the first signs of the Kazhamara settlement appeared, yurts dotting the grassy plains like small islands in a sea of green. The chants and drums of the nomads grew louder as the carriage drew closer, their vibrant celebration heralding the group’s arrival.

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“This isn’t just about an alliance or a wedding,” Ellie repeated, her voice carrying a quiet determination. “It’s about honoring the late prince’s wishes and strengthening the bonds between the tribes and the kingdom. Let’s focus on the task at hand.”

The team silently agreed, their resolve steeling as the settlement loomed closer.

——

As the group approached the Kazhamara settlement, the warm glow of firelight and the hum of celebratory music greeted them. The nomads bustled around their yurts, their vibrant robes swirling like living tapestries against the golden hues of the setting sun. The Chief of the Kazhamara tribe stood at the forefront, a tall and imposing figure with streaks of silver in his braided hair and an ornately embroidered robe symbolizing his status.

Before anyone could formally exchange greetings, a figure darted from the crowd. Lady Audries, radiant in an intricately beaded red dress that shimmered like the flames of the hearth, and a traditional ornated hat adorned with pearls and delicate tassels, rushed toward them with unbridled enthusiasm. Her movements were graceful yet bursting with youthful energy.

Without hesitation, Lady Audries leaped toward Ellie and Cassian, wrapping them both in a warm, enthusiastic embrace. "Ellie! Cassian! You’ve finally arrived!" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement, as if she had known them for years.

The two of them froze, momentarily stunned by the unexpected embrace. Ellie blinked, her mind racing. How does she know our names? She hadn't seen Lady Audries before, and neither had Cassian. They were certain they hadn't introduced themselves or been mentioned by anyone in the tribe. Yet here she was, calling them by name as if they were old friends.

Cassian managed a nervous laugh, her brow furrowing in confusion. "Uh... You... you know our names?" she asked, her tone a mix of surprise and curiosity, her eyes darting around the gathering crowd as though searching for answers.

Ellie glanced at Audries, still holding her with a faint, puzzled expression on her face. Is she that well-informed, or did someone mention us to her beforehand? Ellie was typically not one to show her confusion, but this caught her off guard.

Audries, oblivious to their surprise, smiled warmly and pulled back slightly, her hands still resting on their shoulders. "Of course, I know your names! We'll be traveling together in the next couple of days toward the capital, after all." She grinned, her eyes gleaming with a knowing spark. "I’ve actually already traveled with you both, in a way.”

Cassian blinked, confused. "What do you mean by that Lady Audries?” Her voice was cautious, trying to wrap her mind around Audries’ cryptic words.

“Just call me Audries,” the young woman declared, stepping back but keeping her hands on their shoulders. “None of that formal nonsense. I’ve been expecting you.” Audries’ smile deepened, a mysterious air surrounding her. "You see, I have the ability to glimpse the threads of destiny, to see what lies ahead. I've seen us traveling together to the capital many times in my visions.”

Before Ellie could respond, Audries leaned in close, whispering mischievously into her ear, “I’m afraid I’m going to cause you all a lot of trouble in the next few days. Do your best to keep up.” She pulled back with a playful wink, leaving Ellie momentarily speechless.

The Chief, his deep voice carrying authority and warmth, stepped forward. “Welcome to the Kazhamara Plains. You honor us with your presence,” he said, bowing slightly. He then gestured to his men. “Show our guests around the settlement and ensure they are treated with the utmost respect.”

As the evening descended, the group was invited to join a grand celebration around the central bonfire. The air was filled with the rhythmic beats of drums and the melodic hum of string instruments, accompanied by the cheerful voices of the tribe. A special brew called Steppecrine Mead, a potent and creamy alcoholic drink made from the milk of Steppecrines, was offered in intricately carved wooden cups.

Jun’de, always one to dive into the spirit of festivities, found himself at the center of the dancing circle. His acrobatic moves—flipping and spinning with an almost supernatural grace—drew gasps and cheers from the crowd. Rendy, never one to be outdone, joined in with his own wild, albeit less coordinated, dance. The two of them quickly became the stars of the evening.

Cassian, sitting near the fire, noticed a group of young women whispering and giggling while casting admiring glances toward Jun’de. She nudged Ellie, who sat beside her, tilting her head toward the scene.

Ellie smirked, her silver hair catching the firelight. “Well, those girls are in for heartbreak. Jun’s interests lie… elsewhere,” she remarked with a teasing lilt.

Their lighthearted exchange was interrupted when one of Lady Audries’ maids approached, bowing respectfully. “Miss Ellie, Miss Cassian,” she said softly, her voice laced with urgency. “My lady requests your presence in her yurt.”

Ellie and Cassian exchanged a glance, their expressions shifting to cautious curiosity. Rising to their feet, they followed the maid through the lively celebration, weaving past dancing tribesmen and the warm glow of the bonfire. The night’s festivities faded behind them as they approached Lady Audries’ yurt, the flickering lantern outside casting long shadows on the richly embroidered fabric.

With a deep breath, they stepped inside, ready to face whatever awaited them.

——

As they stepped inside Lady Audries' yurt, they were once again greeted warmly. Audries, now dressed in a simple nightgown and with her hair flowing loosely around her shoulders, beamed at them. Ellie and Cassian instinctively bowed, but Audries immediately waved them off with a soft laugh.

"Please," she said, her voice light and welcoming, "no need for all the formalities. Come, sit with me.”

She gestured to a small table adorned with flowers and colorful fabrics, an inviting space for them to join her. Ellie and Cassian exchanged a brief glance before both sat down, though they were still adjusting to the warmth of Audries' presence.

Audries looked at them with a gentle smile. "You must have a lot of questions on your mind," she remarked, her tone both curious and understanding.

Ellie hesitated for a moment, then decided to speak up. "I’ve heard rumors about your power, Lady Audries, the power to see the future" she said. “you said you’ve seen us in your visions? How far into the future do your powers reach?”

Audries nodded gracefully, her expression turning more serious, yet still calm. "Yes, it’s true," she said softly. "My ring, the Fate Seer Ring—more commonly known as the Ring of Kismet—gives me the ability to glimpse the threads of destiny. It allows me to see glimpses of the future.”

Ellie leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. "How far can your power reach?" she asked, eager for more answers.

Audries’ smile became distant, as though she were lost in thought, reliving the visions she had experienced. "Far enough," she said slowly. "Far enough to know that you two are key to ensuring I reach the capital safely. I’ve seen us traveling together, facing dangers, working side by side." Her eyes seemed to focus on something beyond the present. "I've also seen the challenges ahead—the difficult decisions you’ll have to make... and how those choices will change the course of this kingdom.”

She paused, her expression shifting to one of concern. "But lately, something has been disturbing my visions," she continued. "A titan—dragonic in appearance—made entirely of red threads of fate." She shivered slightly, as if recalling the unsettling image. "I’m not sure what it is or how it will play out, but I know it’s connected to my ring. Somehow, it’s linked to the threads I can see, and I believe it will have a significant impact on the future.”

Cassian frowned, processing the weight of Audries' words. "That's... unsettling," she admitted, her tone filled with unease. "So, you already know what’s going to happen?”

Audries shook her head lightly, her expression softening. "Not everything. The future is never set in stone. It’s a tangled web, and things are always shifting. But I do know that we have a long road ahead of us, and I trust you both to help me navigate it." Her voice was gentle yet reassuring. "The threads of destiny are complicated, but I have faith in you. We are meant to travel together, and I believe we will succeed.”

The room was filled with a quiet understanding, the weight of the journey ahead hanging in the air. Cassian and Ellie exchanged looks once more, knowing the next few days would test them in ways they couldn't yet comprehend. But with Audries' faith in them, they felt a renewed sense of purpose.