Chapter 17: A Kingdom Without Walls
After taking a brief rest in the small village, Liora and Elowen resumed their journey, entering what they hoped would be the final stretch before reaching the High Chief's place.
The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the winding dirt path as the carriage creaked steadily and rhythmically like an old lullaby.
The air was alive with the mingling scents of blooming wildflowers and damp earth, a testament to the recent rain.
Golden sunlight filtered through the sparse canopy of trees overhead, dappling the ground in shifting patterns of light and shadow.
Birds chirped melodiously in the distance, their songs blending harmoniously with the gentle rustle of leaves stirred by the ever-present wind.
It wasn't just wind—it was *Windoria's breath*, a constant reminder of the kingdom's namesake spirit. Liora, feeling more at ease after her earlier turmoil, leaned out of the carriage slightly to take in the scenery once again.
his time, however, her curiosity outweighed her insecurities. Turning to Elowen, she began peppering her with questions about Windoria. "What's it like there? Are the people friendly? Do they have wars too? Will I have to fight again? And what kind of monsters threaten them?" Her voice carried both apprehension and excitement—a mix of fear for the unknown and preparation for whatever lay ahead.
Elowen chuckled softly, amused by Liora's relentless curiosity. "One question at a time, flower girl," she teased gently before launching into an explanation.
"Windoria is... different from Sanctora. Imagine a vast expanse of land covered in grass and tall weeds, dotted with rolling hills and crisscrossed by beautiful rivers. There are patches of jungle here and there, but nothing too dense—just clusters of smaller trees. From above, it looks like a green carpet spread over the earth."
"Some call it a 'flying green carpet' because the wind never truly stops blowing. It's not a gale, mind you, but it's more than just a breeze." She paused, letting Liora picture the scene in her mind.
"As for the people, well, they're unlike anyone you've met before. They're loud, strict, proud, and fiercely competitive—but don't mistake that pride for hostility. They value humor, though it might take some time to earn their trust or respect."