The carriage ride isn’t fun at all. My mother complains of her headaches the entire time, and my father spends most of the long travel days lecturing me on how to act properly. Even though my mother is Verdana’s ruler, and he’s her King consort, my father seems to make the rules. I’m miserable. I’ve never been confined to such a small space for so long in my life, let alone with both of them.

I stare out the window for days and do my best to block out their dreadful chatter. In Verdana, the treacherous mountains block my views from the castle, and snow covers every inch I can see. But once we’re a few days into our trek across Baelliles, we’re greeted by lush fields of golden wheat, rolling grassy hills, and tall green trees that seem to reach all the way up into milky white clouds. We shed our fur-lined cloaks, and I revel in the feel of the warm air against my skin. The sky shifts between blue and lavender hues, and soon, the scents of lemon and sage flood the carriage. These small joys are enough to carry me through the long trip.

We finally arrive in Nerwick, the town where our enemy’s castle stands. Before I can rise, my father is already glaring at me.

“Idalia,” he says coldly, “You must remember all we’ve taught you. It is you who must save Verdana, and it begins today.” He doesn’t wait for a response, he’s already scuffling around in his seat, preparing to exit the gig.

My mother grabs my hands. I fear I’m in trouble, but she softly smiles. “You look beautiful, my sweet Idalia. They’ll be fools to not fall in love with you.” Her palm cups my cheek, and a tender thumb strokes it gently. “Don’t be afraid, do you hear me? I know that your father has told you how important this visit is, but we mustn’t be afraid. Let wisdom be your staff; grip it firmly. Let compassion be your crown; wear it proudly. And above all, bring joy with you wherever you go. Cling to it with all of your might. For fear is the enemy of the Hyland women.”

Her eyes pierce mine with such intent I wonder if her headache is back. Before I can respond, my father raps on the carriage roof, the door opens, and servants are helping us alight.

“Welcome to Baelliles, Your Majesties. I speak for our entire kingdom when I say that we hope you found no trouble during your travels.” A lean man with fair skin bows low and greets us as we descend. “I am Horrick Ferdun, a dear friend and the trusted advisor to King Vaskis. Allow me to show you to the wing where you will reside for the next few days. Please, let me know if there is anything I can do to make your stay more comfortable.”