The hovering carriage glided smoothly above the shimmering streets of Eldo-Clearoth, its hum blending with the faint buzz of magic that seemed to saturate every corner of the kingdom. Inside the carriage, Emma pressed her face close to the glass window, her wide eyes absorbing the breathtaking scenery unfurling before her.
The city below was a mesmerizing patchwork of colors and activity. Multi-tiered streets were lined with shops and homes built into the sides of majestic cliffs, their facades crafted from enchanted stone that glimmered like moonlight. Winding canals of shimmering aqua flowed through parts of the city, their currents held aloft in midair by spells that defied gravity. Boats floated lazily along these canals, carrying passengers and goods to their destinations.
As the carriage gained altitude, Emma gasped. Her gaze locked onto the crown jewel of Eldo-Clearoth: the royal castle. Rising high above the city, the castle was a marvel of magical architecture, its towering spires reaching as if to pierce the heavens. The entire structure seemed to glow with a soft, calming luminescence, a radiant energy that blanketed the city in an otherworldly light. Intricate golden runes danced along its walls, weaving patterns that shimmered and shifted like waves of liquid magic.
“It looks like it’s alive,” Emma murmured, her voice tinged with awe.
Vivian glanced out the window and smiled. “That’s the heart of Eldo-Clearoth, both literally and figuratively. The castle is infused with ancient enchantments, some of which power the city itself. It’s said the castle is an extension of the kingdom’s spirit, protecting its people and fostering unity.”
Emma nodded, mesmerized by the scene. But soon, her attention was drawn to figures patrolling the streets below. Clad in gleaming armor etched with glowing symbols, they moved with a confident, purposeful stride. Their flowing capes bore the emblem of Eldo-Clearoth—a radiant sun flanked by two crescent moons.
“Mom,” Emma asked, her gaze lingering on the knights. “Who are they? They look... important.”
“They’re the Knights of Eldo-Clearoth,” Vivian explained, her voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. “Some call them knights, others call them heroes. Either way, they serve the same purpose—to protect the peace and unity of this kingdom. They’re skilled awakened, all dedicated to the well-being of Eldo-Clearoth and its people.”
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Emma tilted her head, curiosity brimming in her eyes. “Were you and Dad… were you knights too?”
Vivian chuckled softly, the corners of her lips curving upward. “Yes, we were. For years, your father and I served the kingdom, standing shoulder to shoulder with those knights to protect its peace. But…” Her expression softened, her tone warmer. “Eventually, we chose a different path—a quieter life where we could raise a family and leave the battles behind.”
Emma wasn’t entirely surprised. Her parents had always carried an air of quiet strength, their actions and composure hinting at a past filled with challenges. But still, the confirmation sparked a sense of awe in her. She turned to Vivian, her lips curling into a smile. “That’s… amazing.”
Vivian returned the smile, her expression tinged with pride and fondness.
As the carriage continued its journey, Emma’s gaze wandered to a towering building crowned with a glowing holographic screen. On it, radiant golden letters shifted and sparkled, forming the words: MAGIC SCHOOL ENROLLMENT OPENED!
Emma blinked, her thoughts momentarily distracted. A part of her wondered what it might be like to attend such a school, to immerse herself in the mysteries of magic and learn alongside others. But almost as quickly, she dismissed the idea.
Not yet, she thought, shaking her head. She wasn’t ready for that world, especially since she didn’t yet know the language of Eldo-Clearoth. Besides, she reasoned, there was plenty to learn at home. Books were her sanctuary, her teachers. That was all she needed for now.
Returning her focus to the cityscape, Emma spotted towering sculptures made from living vines, their flowers blooming with vibrant hues that seemed to shift with the light. Enchanted street performers entertained crowds with glowing orbs of mana that danced and burst into sparkling shapes. The city was alive in a way that felt both overwhelming and exhilarating.
Finally, the carriage began to slow. It descended gracefully toward a designated stop, marked by a large, ornately engraved sign that read: ROYAL BOOKSTORE.
Emma leaned forward, her excitement bubbling over as she caught sight of the grand building. Its arched windows sparkled in the sunlight, and its doors, framed with intricate carvings of dragons and phoenixes, radiated a warm golden glow.
She turned to Vivian, her face alight with anticipation. “Finally!” she said, her voice filled with joy.
Vivian chuckled softly as the carriage came to a gentle halt. Together, they stepped out into the magical streets of Eldo-Clearoth, Emma’s heart racing at the thought of the treasures that awaited her inside the bookstore.