Cyn dutifully watched over me as I packed a small traveling bag full of clothes. I fell into a sort of autopilot as I packed while my mind sorted through all that happened. Life always has a tendency to throw curve balls at people, and this was one hell of a pitch. As I was tossing a few pairs of socks into my bag, my mind kept flowing in circles. What was that golden glow? Why were people so surprised? Why is my father forcing me to leave? All these questions and more just kept repeating over and over. And it pissed me off. When I finished my packing I faced Cyn,

“Get my father. I will remain here. But you will bring him here.” I commanded, meeting her eyes. At first she appeared conflicted, but eventually looked away and nodded before jogging off. It was strange that worked so well. I needed more information, namely why people were treating me with such reverence. I hadn’t read anything about this before, though I’d bet money that the information was still on the top shelves in the library. If only I were taller, then maybe this whole situation could have been explained before I was pissed.

While I waited for my father to come to my room I grabbed a silver ring I had been given for my fourth birthday. It was plain, but it was given to me by my mother so it was special to me. She herself had said that thought the ring may not be special, the act of giving such a gift has great meaning. Then she proceeded to ramble on about how Wekken had proposed to her using the ring she had showed me and how happy she was. She said that if I were to ever give a ring as a gift, make sure I gave it to someone special.

So marriage had the same customs here, which was interesting. I'd have thought different cultures would have different customs. But then again, in my world everyone used a ring for marriage no matter the country, so I guess once it sticks its forever.

I didn’t have to wait long until my father arrived with the priest and enchanter behind him. Cyn was behind them with a stoic look on her face.

“What is it you want Daen? Cyn said that you demanded to see me.” My father spoke in a very serious tone. One that would intimidate someone to do exactly as he said. Unfortunately for him, I don’t take shit from anybody.

“Why am I being forced to leave?” He stood silent for a few moments as we watched one another. When Basros opened his mouth to speak my father held up his hand to silence him.

“Leave us.” He commanded. All bowed their heads and walked off. My father waited until he was sure we were alone before continuing. “I myself am conflicted, as I am sure you are as well Daen.” I nodded at his words. “Things are…complicated. In the Scriptures of the Five, it is written that any who reveal a golden glow when tested are to be sent to the Holy Kingdom. That is why a priest accompanies an Enchanter to every Judgment Day. I myself am unsure what the golden glow means, but it is important. Some stories write that it means you have a special magical power. Others say the orb can sense great destinies. Either are enough to go to war over.”

“War?” I questioned. My father nodded grimly,

“History tells of the last land that refused to relinquish a child with a golden glow. That country was easily conquered by the Holy Kingdom’s forces as well as religious fanatics from the country itself. However, that boy was killed during the conflict by a group of rogue Enchanters that used dark magic. Whatever the golden glow means, be it a power or destiny, the Black Enchanters fear it.”

“So then the Holy Kingdom would then use me to fight them?”

“That is potentially the most logical conclusion, but I myself am unsure. I would tell you if I knew, Daen.” He paused in thought for a moment, “Perhaps it is known only to a few in the Holy Kingdom itself, otherwise the knowledge would have spread. Either way, it is vital we send you there.”

“What if I don’t go? What if I run away?”

“Then you would bring war to our doorsteps. Thousands…no, tens of thousands would die simply because you wished to be closer to your family. Your stubbornness would tear apart two lands that had been at peace for time immeasurable. The family you sought to stay close to may even be killed in said war.”

“I-”

“You are smarter than that Daen. Though you are a child, you yourself do not act childish.”

“…”I didn’t want to go. I wanted to stay with my family and my friends. But…to keep the peace… “I’ll go.” I firmly promised.

My father nodded, “If it means anything, I’m sorry. I wish there was another way.” He gave me a sad smile, “You’re a bright child, Daen. Far more than any child has a right to be. Both of your mothers speak well of you often.”

“I…just do what comes natural, father. That is all.” I picked up my bag and followed him to the doorway. Once we were outside and walking through the halls he spoke.

“Daen.”

“Yes father?”

“Whatever they want from you, do not become a puppet for them. Always think for yourself, my son.”

“They’ll be more than surprised if they try that with me, I think.” My father grinned and nodded once more. Together, we left the house.

A covered wagon hitched to a pair of horses waited outside the main gate to our home. Five armed guards on horseback flanked the wagon with stern faces. My family, the Tindolsts, Basros, and the enchanter all stood in a small group at the gate. Mixed reactions were upon the group that I approached. From open tears to stoic expressions and even joyous smiles. It was time for me to give my final goodbyes. No…not final. I’d be back. One day. My mother was the first to give her goodbyes. With a smile, she kissed my forehead and embraced me.

“I always knew my boy would be special.” She sniffed, “You be good and write us often, okay?” I nodded,

“I will mother.” She nodded. Myril was the next to give me a tight embrace.

“Keep your mind sharp Daen. We will miss you dearly.” I nodded and returned her hug.

“Be strong brother.” Kelmon spoke holding out his hand for me to shake. I pulled him in for a manly embrace however,

“Thanks Kelmon, you do your best at the Officer’s Academy!” He nodded and grinned.

Jeral and Mytti came next, but neither could say much so we had a group hug. I was gonna miss Jeral’s antics and Mytti’s revenge to said antics. “Don’t ever change you two.” They nodded and rubbed their eyes.

Lakka charged into me, held me tight and cried. All I could do was pat her head for awhile.

“I’ll miss you.” She cried.

“I know, I’ll miss you too Lakka. I’ll write to you the most okay? So be sure to make everyone else jealous.” She smiled and nodded at that.

Mr. Tindolst held out his hand and I shook it. “Thank you for all you’ve done for me and my family.”

“I expect to see you managing a big store when I return.” I spoke with a grin that he returned.

“I’ll do my best master Daen.” Pattelia was more forward than her husband. She pulled me into an embrace.

“When you come back you best stop by our home for dinner!” I laughed,

“I will Mrs. Tindolst.”

Finally it was time to say goodbye to Ilsha. She stood before me with her eyes downcast. Before she could move towards me I made the first move and pulled her into a hug. I could hear her lightly sob as she returned my embrace. Despite our differences in social status, I truly found myself liking her. She was a kind girl who wore her emotions on her sleeves. The kind of girl I’d have liked to marry in my previous life. But would I want to marry her? I thought about the ring in my pocket.

To her, I was special. To me, she was just a nice girl. I don't know if I loved her, but I didn't want to see her hurt from my leaving again. Was it enough to give her such a gift? After a moment, we separated and she looked ready to start crying all over again. I couldn't stand the sight of a crying girl. I'm just a big softie. Before the tears could start falling, I grabbed her hand and placed the silver ring I had been given for my third birthday in it.

“Keep this safe for me Ilsha. I will be back one day, remember that.” Speechless, she looked at the ring in her hand, then to me. Before I could react she jumped at me and planted a kiss on my cheek. In all honesty, it wouldn’t have been so bad if it weren’t for everyone whooping or d’awwing. I was sure my face was a bright red as I held a hand to the cheek she kissed. Ilsha quickly retreated to hide behind her mother and peek at me, my ring clenched firmly in her hand. With as much grace as I could muster, I bowed and walked towards the wagon. To my apparent destiny.

Basros and the enchanter had already climbed into the wagon as I made my farewells. For my final farewell, I climbed into the back of the wagon. Only slightly assisted by my escort, Cyn, who followed me inside. I desperately needed a growth spurtso I wouldn’t have to rely on others. Regardless, from the rear of the wagon I faced my adoring crowd of friends and family.

“I’ll be back!” I shouted into the sky with my fist raised high. A few smiles in an ocean of confused looks were my only reward. Forgive me Arnold, I have failed you.

With a the crack of a whip, the wagon lurched forward as the horses began to pull. Away from the sunset we rode, my journey had started. I turned to inspect our covered wagon. It was quite spacious, enough for three adults to sleep side by side. However, most of that space was packed with bags. At least the sides had benches crafted into the wagon. I sat beside Cyn who gave me a light punch on the shoulder.

“Nice choice on the ring m’lord.” She grinned,

“I thought so too. Now she won’t be as sad about me leaving.” Cyn nodded, but her grin only increased.

“Aye m’lord. You’ve made her one happy lass.”

“Indeed! I never thought a boy your age could be so forward!” The Enchantress spoke from her seat.

They were both looking at me like two cats staring at a bowl of fresh cream. I shrugged,

“She’ll turn out to be a great woman one day. This way everyone knows shes spoken for. Though, it'll be a long time until then.” If her mother was anything to go by, she'd be a good looking lady as well. Personality is a lot, but I mean, looks don't hurt, right?

Basros coughed in surprise,

“I’d be happy to reign over the ceremony when the two of you are older if it pleases you.” He grinned along with the women.

“I’ll be sure to attend m’lord’s ceremony.” Cyn spoke with bright eyes.

“Ohhh, may I be allowed to attend as well, Lord Daen?” The Enchantress questioned.

“I…errr…ahhh…ehhh…” It was an embarrassing moment in all honesty, but it certainly wasn’t unpleasant to have friends like this. “Yeah sure. You’re all invited.”

“Hear, hear!” Basros exclaimed.

“Hear, hear!” the others echoed. Even the guards outside.

I, Daen Faltelo, five years old, am now engaged. I looked out the back of the wagon, watching my home slowly shrink in the distance as we traveled. Perhaps Ilsha would find a different love in our time apart. But I doubted that very much.

“So how old do I have to be for marriage?” I asked Basros.

“Eager lad?”

“Not really, just wondering.”

“Ah well the youngest couples normally wed at fifteen. Royalty marries younger at twelve, but those are arranged marriages.”

“I see. Ten years is a long time.”

“She’ll be thinkin’ of you every night m’lord!” One of the guards called from outside. Chuckles echoed all round and I joined them.

“I don’t doubt that.”

“Aye, but first we’ll make sure ye stay safe, right boys?” Cyn questioned the guards outside our wagon.

“Aye!” came the uniform response.

*****

Ilsha sat in the back of a horse-drawn wagon with her mother. Her father rode at the front, maneuvering the horse towards their farm. Silver reflected in her eyes as she stared at the ring in her palm. Despite all the time that had passed, her heart was still pounding in her chest.

“If you stare too hard, you’ll go blind.” Her mother chastised. Ilsha smiled and placed the ring on her left hand.

“Daen...” She whispered to herself.

“In all my years, I’ve never seen an engagement at such a young age! My little girl is certainly lucky, and to such a nice boy…”

“M-mother…please.” Ilsha fidgeted in embarrassment. “I…we don’t even know when he’ll come back.”

“But he will be back, you heard him.” Nemmel spoke from the front. “Never thought my daughter’d be engaged to a noble like him…”

“Hear that Ilsha? You’ll be called Lady Faltelo one day.”

“Lady Faltelo…” Her mind ran wild with dreams of living in a big house by his side. Together with a family of their own. “It’ll be perfect…”