Lady Hermiosa guided the young women back to the healing hangar, a sanctuary of calm that radiated an aura of serene repose. Within the confines of her workroom, the atmosphere grew even cozier, as the soft golden sunlight filtered through the expansive windows, which were adorned with an array of neatly arranged flower pots.
"Please, my dears, make yourselves comfortable while I prepare the tea," Lady Hermiosa said, her voice a balm of soothing warmth.
Astraa and Lykaa exchanged a glance, their earlier apprehensions tempered by gratitude for the healer’s benevolent hospitality. They settled into the plush chairs, taking in the tranquil ambiance that enveloped the room.
“Thank you, Lady Hermiosa,” they both expressed in unison, their voices laced with appreciation for the kindness she had shown since their arrival.
As she prepared the tea, Lady Hermiosa turned to Astraa with a gentle smile.
“Did you know, Astraa, that your uncle and I were once candidates together? We were sent to Rhanda for three months, just before his final trial,” she revealed, watching as surprise flickered across Astraa’s face.
Astraa was startled. "You mean to say, you were acquainted with him even before he ascended to the ranks of the eternal warriors? I had no inkling of such a connection," she confessed, her curiosity piqued.
Lady Hermiosa smiled knowingly. "Indeed, our acquaintance stretches far back. Skarsnay was, in those days, a figure of reckless abandon during our time as candidates. He would return from each trial battered and bruised, his demeanor as impenetrable as a fortress.
Few could breach the walls he had built around himself, save for his brother, who, being both an eternal warrior and his mentor, was the sole soul to whom Skarsnay was close," she recounted with a touch of nostalgia, the memories of their youth stirring faint amusement.
Lykaa, entertained by the notion, leaned in with a twinkle of curiosity in her eye. "And how, pray, did you manage to transform him into the sociable and kind soul we know today?" she inquired with genuine interest.
Lady Hermiosa responded with a warm chuckle. "Ah, I was always the gregarious one, and Sir Igsnay believed I might exert a positive influence on Skarsnay. Thus, he sent me along with him, hoping that I might aid him in the art of socializing and the making of companions. In time, we became quite the inseparable pair," she reminisced, a touch of affection coloring her tone.
Yet Astraa's smile faltered at the mention of Sir Igsnay. "My uncle scarcely ever speaks of him," Astraa admitted quietly.
With graceful ease, Lady Hermiosa poured tea and arranged biscuits for the young women, filling her cozy workroom with an air of warmth and hospitality.
"Oh, I understand," Lady Hermiosa replied, her voice softening as she recognized the sensitivity of the topic she had broached. "I apologize if I spoke of him too lightly. To us, Sir Igsnay was more than just a mentor; he was a hero and an inspiration, even to those of us who walk the path of eternal healers. His name was synonymous with kindness and compassion."
Under the gentle glow of the moonlight, Lady Hermiosa continued her conversation with Astraa, weaving a tale that echoed with uncanny familiarity—a tale of a man named Skarsnay, whose life bore a striking resemblance to Astraa's own.
"Skarsnay was much like you, Astraa, perhaps even more solitary," she began, her tone rich with reminiscence. "He kept few close to his heart, and I was among the rare souls in whom he truly confided. Yet, the course of his life was irrevocably altered by the influence of your parents, especially your mother, Vruthra."
Astraa listened with rapt attention, her eyes reflecting the soft luminescence of the moon. Skarsnay was profoundly dedicated to his training, aspiring to follow in the footsteps of his brother Sir Igsnay, a distinguished member of the Royal Guard who served among the Twelve Royal Guards under the command of the Four Generals.
Lady Hermiosa's voice took on a wistful tone as she continued. "During Sir Igsnay's first assignment at the border, he encountered someone remarkable—a fellow Royal Guard. But unlike Sir Igsnay, this woman was of noble birth, hailing from the royal family of Iliad. She was, in fact, your mother, Lady Vruthra."
Astraa's curiosity deepened; the love story of her parents was legendary in their land, a tale of two souls who had boldly defied societal conventions to be together.
“Lady Vruthra's exalted lineage and Sir Igsnay's more humble origins conspired to forge a forbidden love, beset by innumerable trials,” Lady Hermiosa continued, her tone laden with gravitas.
“Sir Igsnay, though a Royal Guard—an honor bestowed only upon the most elite of the eternal warriors—was nonetheless a commoner by birth. His love for Lady Vruthra, a woman of royal blood, was met with disapproval and scorn. To pursue such a union was to defy the rigid societal norms that dictated their world. Yet, despite the censure and obstacles they faced, they chose to transcend these barriers, steadfast in their devotion. This profound and audacious love story left an indelible mark upon Skarsnay’s life.”
Skarsnay, then but a young and inexperienced lad, was scarcely acquainted with the subtleties of love. In his innocence, he once inquired of Sir Igsnay, "Why do you and Lady Vruthra persevere despite the myriad of obstacles?"
Sir Igsnay's reply was both illuminating and imbued with poetic grace.
He responded, "Brother, as Valendeyans and Eternal Warriors, we draw our sustenance from the very essence of nature—its energy fuels our survival, our combat, and our existence. This connection is forged through an emotional bond with the natural world. Yet, when you encounter a bond of similar or even greater profundity with another soul, one whose emotions surpass even the nature from which we draw our strength, the experience is nothing short of magical. Such a connection endows you with a power so profound that it empowers you to confront the world. I have found this extraordinary bond with Lady Vruthra, and I hope that one day you, too, will experience it. Only then will you truly grasp the essence of what you are asking."
Lady Hermiosa proceeded, her words measured and intentional. "When you regard Sir Igsnay, you behold a man who ascended from modest beginnings through sheer talent and diligent effort. He not only achieved remarkable success but also garnered the love and respect of all those he encountered. He made it a point to connect with others on a personal level."
She paused, allowing her words to resonate. "And Lady Vruthra, despite her exalted status, embodied humility and kindness, treating all with equal regard."
Astraa and Lykaa nodded thoughtfully, absorbing the wisdom imparted to them.
"Since the trials, I have observed with great interest the striking resemblance between you and Lady Vruthra. Your physical features, the grace with which you carry yourself—it is as though you are a mirror image of her," she remarked, her voice imbued with warmth, highlighting the profound connection she perceived between Astraa and her esteemed parents.
Her attention then turned to Astraa's eyes, a glimmer of recognition illuminating her gaze. "And those eyes, my dear, they are a reflection of your father, Sir Igsnay. They convey humility, kindness, and profound depth—qualities I have observed in both of them," she remarked, her voice rich with admiration.
Hermiosa's tone shifted subtly, a hint of playfulness infusing her voice. "Yet here is where the similarities diverge. Your parents were vivacious extroverts, flourishing within social circles and deeply attuned to the emotions of those around them."
She let out a soft chuckle. "However, beyond the surface, the resemblances begin to fade. While your parents were open-hearted, gregarious souls, you seem to possess a demeanor more akin to that of Skarsnay.
Both of you tend to guard your feelings closely, often finding it difficult to fully comprehend the emotions of others," Hermiosa remarked, her words punctuated by a gentle laughter.
"I happened to overhear your earlier discourse," Lady Hermiosa remarked, her gaze flitting between Astraa and Lykaa.
Both young women were momentarily taken aback, their faces suffused with a blend of surprise and embarrassment at the revelation of their private conversation.
"However, do not concern yourselves overly; disputes among friends are quite common. The essence lies in understanding the motivations that underpin such conflicts." Her eyes settled on Astraa. "In your instance, Minosa's jealousy was incited by her sentiments for Markon, who appeared to express an interest in you," Hermiosa explained with gentle understanding.
Astraa swiftly responded, "No, Lady Hermiosa, there has been a misunderstanding. Markon harbors no romantic inclinations towards me."
Lady Hermiosa chuckled softly at Astraa's denial.
"Ah, just as I suspected. At times, you and Skarsnay exhibit a shared trait—an endearing obliviousness to the sentiments of others. Yet, let us not dwell on this. What truly holds significance is that Minosa's feelings were genuine, and as her closest friend, you should have been her primary confidante. Pray, why did she not turn to you?" Hermiosa inquired, her gaze steady and perceptive.
Astraa found herself at a loss for words, deeply affected by the truth of Lady Hermiosa's observations.
"You see, Astraa," Hermiosa continued, "it appears that, beyond your evident disinterest in romantic matters, you have also tended to overlook the emotions of those around you. This is not to say that dedication to your training is a fault—indeed, it is admirable. Yet, what I am imploring you to do is to extend your understanding to the feelings of others, as your parents once did. They were masters of empathy and compassion, truly attuned to the emotions of those around them. You now stand at a crossroads: to persist in your current path, detached from the sentiments of others, or to embrace a more empathetic approach. The choice is ultimately yours, and it is our role as those who have traversed similar experiences to offer guidance, helping you navigate towards making the most fitting decisions for your life."
Hermiosa's counsel was not directed solely at Astraa; it encompassed Lykaa as well.
With that, she left Astraa in a contemplative silence, reflecting upon the wisdom imparted by one who had traversed similar phases of life.
"Your words of wisdom and care resonate deeply with us," Astraa expressed her heartfelt gratitude. "You have treated us not merely as apprentices, but as if we were indeed family."
Hermiosa's expression softened with a tender warmth as she responded, "Indeed, Astraa. From the moment you entered this world, I have held you close as if you were family. Yet, the vicissitudes of fate, particularly the sorrowful loss of your parents, have wrought a distance between us. I deeply lament my absence during your formative years. Now that you have come to understand the history of your parents and the bond I share with it, I earnestly hope you will contemplate visiting me more frequently."
Astraa’s eyes shone with gratitude as she replied, "Indeed, Lady Hermiosa. Had Uncle Skarsnay imparted this knowledge to me sooner, I would have sought your guidance with much greater urgency. Even Grandma Moula, in her desire to shield her own emotions, has refrained from speaking of my parents, which is why I have hesitated to broach the subject. Yet, with you, I sense a readiness to open up without inflicting distress."
Turning to Lykaa, Hermiosa added, "Lykaa, do not let our focus on training dissuade you. Though I may appear stern at times, remember that I am here not merely as an instructor but also as a confidante."
"Your words are appreciated, Lady Hermiosa," Lykaa responded, her tone imbued with sincere gratitude.
As their conversation drew to a close, the young women bade their farewells to Lady Hermiosa, feeling a renewed sense of connection and guidance that promised to shape their futures with renewed purpose.
"Truly, after the clash I had with Minosa earlier, I was rather unsettled," Lykaa confessed, her voice tinged with relief. "But spending time with Lady Hermiosa and delving into the history of your parents has rendered our quarrel insignificant."
Astraa nodded in agreement, her expression softening. "I share your sentiments completely. It feels as though a weight has been lifted from my shoulders. The wisdom imparted by Lady Hermiosa and the bond we’ve strengthened today are truly priceless. I believe we should make it a priority to visit her regularly. Perhaps we might even invite Minosa to join us next time."
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Lykaa's eyes brightened at the suggestion. "That sounds like an excellent plan. So, what shall we do now? The hours have flown by during our conversation. Might I stay over at your place tonight? After all that has transpired, I would much prefer to spend the evening in your company than to be alone at home."
Astraa laughed softly. "Lykaa, you need not seek my permission to come over; you are always welcome. However, before we settle in for the night, I think it best that we pay Minosa a visit. There is some unfinished business between us."
Lykaa raised an eyebrow with playful curiosity. "Do you think she will be receptive to that?"
Astraa's smile was wise and assured. "Does that truly matter? But in earnest, have we not gleaned something from Lady Hermiosa's counsel?"
Lykaa nodded, a sheepish smile gracing her lips. "Indeed, we have. I simply didn't expect you to act on it so quickly."
With their course decided, Astraa and Lykaa set out for Minosa's house, embracing the renewed sense of camaraderie that the day's events had bestowed upon them.
The young women strolled leisurely until their steps brought them to Minosa’s residence. Lykaa, a blend of nerves and anticipation evident in her demeanor, took the lead and gently knocked upon the door, uncertain of what awaited them within.
"Lykaa, Astraa, what a delightful surprise! It seems like ages since I last saw you both. You’ve been so consumed with your training. My heartfelt congratulations on your recent successes in the trials," Lady Joula greeted them with genuine warmth, pleased to have her daughter Minosa’s friends visiting after such a long time.
"Thank you, Lady Joula," Astraa replied graciously. "Indeed, our training has occupied much of our time, and we have missed the chance to catch up since the trials. We thought it would be wonderful for Lykaa, Minosa, and me to spend some time together. Is Minosa at home?"
Lady Joula chuckled softly, shaking her head in mild exasperation. "That girl is ever an enigma to me. She’s in her room, as is her habit. Despite having cleared her trials, one would expect her to be in high spirits, yet she’s been rather melancholic. Perhaps your visit will brighten her mood."
Astraa offered a reassuring smile. "Then our timing is fortuitous. We hope that our presence will lift her spirits." She exchanged a glance with Lykaa, whose expression revealed a blend of awkwardness and concern.
"Before you head upstairs, allow me a moment," Lady Joula interjected with a warm smile. "I’ve just finished baking these biscuits, a new recipe I’ve been trying out. I hope you’ll enjoy them," she added, passing a plate of freshly baked biscuits to Lykaa.
"Thank you ever so much, Lady Joula. I'm certain these are delightful, just as your previous confections have always been," Lykaa replied graciously as she accepted the plate. With the biscuits in hand, the young women continued their ascent, eager to reconnect with Minosa in her chamber.
Lykaa gently pushed open the door to Minosa's bedroom, revealing a startled Minosa within.
"Lykaa, what brings you here?" Minosa asked, her voice tinged with surprise.
"It's not just me," Lykaa responded, stepping aside to allow Astraa to enter the room. Minosa's surprise deepened at the sight of Astraa. Their earlier encounter had left Minosa feeling somewhat embarrassed, and now she found herself uncertain of what to say.
"What brings you here?" Minosa inquired cautiously, her voice carrying an undertone of guilt.
"We’ve missed your company, so we thought we might come and visit you," Astraa replied, her tone warm and inviting.
Minosa struggled to find the words, her emotions churning within her, leaving the room steeped in a heavy silence.
"Alright, Lykaa, you know what to do," Astraa said, casting a meaningful glance at her companion.
Lykaa nodded in understanding. "Indeed," she affirmed, sharing a knowing look with Astraa.
In perfect unison, the two lunged playfully toward Minosa, who remained seated on her bed, caught off guard by their sudden, lighthearted assault.
Minosa, caught off guard by their sudden display of affection, weakly protested.
"What are you doing? Stop this! Astraa! Lykaa! No!" she exclaimed, though her feeble resistance was easily overcome by their warm embraces and tender gestures.
Unable to hold back her emotions any longer, tears streamed down Minosa's cheeks.
"Astraa, I am so deeply sorry," she wept, her voice choked with regret. "My jealousy led me to utter words that were hurtful and unkind. What was meant to be one of the most joyous days of our lives—a moment we all should have treasured—was marred by my actions. I never anticipated that you would find it in your hearts to forgive me, yet here you are. I am profoundly sorry for all that I have done."
Astraa sighed deeply, her expression softening with a touch of understanding.
"Minosa, I must also offer my apologies. We have known one another since our earliest days, yet my singular focus on training and personal ambitions blinded me to your feelings. I took it for granted that you would align with my pursuits, neglecting the emotional aspects of our friendship. This is entirely my fault."
Lykaa nodded in agreement, her eyes reflecting a profound empathy. "I too must concede my shortcomings. While I may not have been as single-minded as Astraa, my tendency to approach life with a certain levity and lack of seriousness may have inadvertently discouraged you from turning to me for support when you needed it most."
Minosa interjected with earnest concern, "Please, do not burden yourselves with guilt. Astraa, you were blameless in this matter. You were unaware of my feelings for Markon, and likewise, you had no knowledge of his regard for you. Lykaa, you are one of the kindest souls I know. Do not carry the weight of my errors."
Astraa replied with firm resolve, "We are not disputing the fact that mistakes were made, Minosa. What we are saying is that such matters are now behind us. It is all forgiven. After all, what is the essence of friendship if not the capacity to overcome occasional disagreements?" She and Lykaa shared a lighthearted chuckle, while Minosa, her tears subsiding, managed a relieved smile.
"So, you impetuous soul," Astraa teased with a playful tone, "since we are all reconciled, could you enlighten us on how you became so enamored with Markon in just a single day?"
Minosa exhaled with a sigh. "Oh, Astraa, enough with the jest. The matter is past; I made a fool of myself before him. I am certain he will wish never to see me again. Moreover, I am quite convinced that his attentions were solely for you."
Astraa raised an eyebrow, her tone thoughtful. "Again with this notion? What leads you to believe Markon harbors any affection for me? He has never once voiced such sentiments. All he has done is commend my skills, much like Gargus, Flanco, and even the twins. Should I now assume they too have feelings for me?"
Minosa hesitated before responding. "It’s merely that… the way he gazed at you seemed distinct."
Lykaa interjected, "I am uncertain of the specific look you refer to, Minosa. Yet if Astraa perceives nothing beyond mere appreciation from him, then that should be the end of it. And even if there were some deeper sentiment, it is of no consequence, as Astraa holds no feelings for him herself."
"Indeed, I have no such feelings," Astraa affirmed with conviction. "And you are aware of this as well. Therefore, cease offering excuses and elaborate on this matter of 'love at first sight' so that we may assist you to the fullest."
Minosa laughed softly. "Assistance from the two of you? Astraa, you have scarcely exchanged a word with a gentleman, while Lykaa is perpetually lost in her own world. And now, you both wish to offer counsel?" She teased them with a light-hearted tone, her previous melancholy lifting.
A knowing exchange of glances occurred between Astraa and Lykaa, responding to Minosa’s playful banter. Without hesitation, they took advantage of the moment, their fingers embarking on a gentle assault of tickles upon Minosa’s sides, until her laughter became uncontrollable.
" Enough!" Minosa exclaimed, surrendering with laughter sparkling in her eyes. "I shall speak, I shall speak!"
Astraa couldn't suppress a mischievous grin. "Aha! You see? Sometimes, a mere tickle is all it takes to coax the truth from you. Now, do share," she encouraged, her tone playful yet imbued with genuine interest, eager to lend a sympathetic ear to Minosa's tale.
As Minosa began her account, the atmosphere shifted to one of gravity, capturing the attention of Astraa and Lykaa, who listened intently as she unveiled a poignant chapter from her past.
"Do you recall our childhood days when my mother owned that charming biscuit shop down on River Street?" Minosa asked, her voice tinged with nostalgia.
Lykaa responded with a fond smile, "Indeed, we often visited that establishment in our youth, and your mother was ever generous with her delightful biscuits."
Minosa continued, her voice imbued with a reflective tone, "In the afternoons after school, I would frequently visit her shop, eager to lend whatever assistance I could, particularly as she managed it single-handedly, with my father often away on his own endeavors. Baking biscuits was not merely a vocation for her; it was her heartfelt passion, one that transcended the bounds of mere commerce. Thus, she generously distributed her creations to anyone who appreciated her artistry. At that tender age, I was too na?ve to grasp the financial burdens that accompanied her generosity.
As you may well know, proprietors are obliged to remit a portion of their earnings to the chief, who in turn allocates it for the betterment of the city. However, due to my mother’s modest profits, she struggled to meet the state’s wage obligations. It was during one such trying time that Chief Sline himself graced our humble shop with his presence."
"Lady Joula," Chief Sline declared with stern gravity, "you are delinquent on your monthly state dues. Should you fail to remit the necessary payment within the week, you shall be compelled to relinquish your shop.
" His gaze softened slightly as he added, "You know, were you to cease offering complimentary items to all comers, your financial circumstances might greatly improve."
Yet, despite his admonitions, my mother, with her boundless benevolence, could not bring herself to reduce her cherished baking to a mere commercial pursuit. The joy she derived from the heartfelt appreciation of her patrons was beyond measure. It was at this moment of mounting distress that a young boy burst into our shop with a sense of urgent haste.
"Lady Joula, might I request one of your exquisite strawberry-flavored biscuits?" inquired the young boy with respectful earnestness.
"Certainly, dear," my mother replied warmly, extending a package of biscuits to him.
Chief Sline's expression hardened. "Markon, what are you doing? You cannot simply solicit free items from others. Such actions are contributing to the perilous situation facing Lady Joula's shop."
Markon, embodying the innocence and compassion of youth, countered with heartfelt sincerity, "But Father, why would you wish for Lady Joula's shop to close? She is the kindest soul. She offers biscuits to me and my friends without charge whenever we pass by. Shouldn't we endeavor to support her in any way we can?" His words were imbued with genuine concern and benevolence.
Chief Sline found himself momentarily taken aback by the unexpected wisdom conveyed in his young son’s words. In that instant, he came to recognize the profound impact of my mother's kindness upon the community. Yet, as chief, he bore the weight of responsibilities that could not be overlooked.
"Lady Joula," Chief Sline began, his tone softened by this newfound appreciation, "I now comprehend the compassion infused into your biscuits, which undoubtedly contributes to their exquisite flavor. Therefore, I shall extend your deadline to two months. However, please understand that this is the limit of my leniency. Ensure that your dues are fulfilled by that time."
Overjoyed by this gracious concession, my mother responded, "Oh, thank you ever so much, Chief Sline. Your kindness is truly invaluable to us."
I, having observed the entire encounter in silence, was profoundly grateful to the young boy who had inadvertently become our benefactor. From that moment forth, my mother, mindful of the financial demands imposed upon us, began to limit her generosity, thus allowing us to meet our state obligations. Markon continued to frequent our shop, and my mother, true to her benevolent nature, always ensured he received complimentary biscuits. I treasured these occasions, standing by my mother's side as she presented him with those treats, and watching him savor each morsel. It was amidst these tender moments that my own sentiments for him began to take root.
As the years progressed, maintaining the shop became increasingly burdensome for my mother. Despite its former success, she ultimately resorted to selling biscuits from our home. This transition diminished my opportunities to see Markon, and as time passed, I gradually relinquished my feelings. That is, until fate reunited us once more, and I beheld him, now fully grown.
"My long-dormant feelings have been abruptly rekindled, prompting me to act in ways I deeply regret. I am sincerely sorry, Astraa," Minosa confessed, releasing the emotions she had long held within.
Astraa's voice took on a somber tone as she replied, "Oh, Minosa, I am truly remorseful. We were unaware of your feelings, neither in our childhood nor in the present. I believed I knew all there was to know about you, yet it appears I was mistaken."
Lykaa then interjected, her tone imbued with a sense of responsibility, "I too offer my apologies, Minosa. I shall speak with Markon on your behalf."
Minosa exhaled a deep sigh, her voice steeped in self-reproach. "Please, both of you, do not burden yourselves with guilt. The matter is settled. Markon will scarcely wish to speak with me henceforth. I have disrupted everything, and the fault lies solely with me."
Astraa responded with resolute clarity, her tone firm and unwavering. "No, Minosa, you must not resign yourself to despair. This is not in keeping with your true character. While you need not disclose your feelings, it is essential that you extend an apology and make an effort to understand him better. We will be training together, and I would rather not have our remaining three months marred by an uncomfortable atmosphere."
Minosa, acknowledging Astraa's reasoning, realized that leaving matters unresolved would indeed render their daily encounters with Markon decidedly awkward.
"But what words shall I utter to him? Flanco has already revealed my feelings, leaving me exposed. What can I possibly convey to rectify this situation?" Minosa inquired, her voice tinged with uncertainty as she sought counsel from her friends.
Astraa paused, momentarily at a loss, her mind grappling with the intricacies of romantic matters. She stammered slightly, the weight of Minosa's expectations pressing heavily upon her. "Well... I..."
Lykaa, displaying a wisdom that belied her years, interjected with confidence. "Speak to him truthfully. Share with him the sentiments you have confided in us, and I am certain he will understand and grant you forgiveness. Perhaps you might inquire of your mother if she has any of those delightful biscuits left and present them to him as a gesture of reconciliation."
Astraa, impressed by Lykaa's sagacious advice, looked at her with newfound respect. Minosa, buoyed by the counsel, felt a sense of relief. Astraa, with a hint of mischief, remarked, "Bravo, Lykaa! I did not realize you possessed such profundity."
Minosa, eager to address the matter at hand, inquired, "So, when shall we arrange to meet with the gentlemen?"
Astraa proposed, "We might return to my residence this evening, enjoy a sleepover, and then embark on a quest to locate the gentlemen on the morrow."
Lykaa, raising a pertinent concern, questioned, "On the morrow? Do any of us possess knowledge of their residences or frequent haunts?"
Astraa, momentarily taken aback and searching for an answer, acquiesced with a resigned sigh. "Very well, Miss 'All-Knowing,' what would you propose instead?"
Lykaa's countenance brightened with triumph as she outlined her strategy. "First, Minosa, you should inform Lady Joula of our intention to hold a sleepover at Astraa's residence. Subsequently, we shall proceed to River Street, for it is there the gentlemen have invited us today. It is the most assured place to find them."
Astraa, conceding with a playful sigh and a roll of her eyes, replied, "Very well, we shall dutifully follow your lead, oh wise one." With their resolve set, the trio embarked on their journey to Park Street, Minosa clutching a splendid box of her mother’s strawberry-flavored biscuits, a token of affection that danced in her grasp, and their spirits lifted by the exhilarating promise of resolution and camaraderie.
