The first rays of dawn spread across the rooftops of Valenor, painting the city in shades of gold and amber.
The streets were quieter than usual.
Most of the city was still asleep.
Only bakers, guards finishing the night watch, and travelers beginning long journeys could be seen moving through the cool morning air.
John stood in the courtyard of the Silver Stag, adjusting the straps of his field satchel one final time.
The leather bag Miriam had given him rested comfortably against his back.
Inside were his research journal, maps, writing supplies, measuring tools, preservation cloth, and enough space to safely carry any documents the expedition might recover.
Over his traveling clothes, he wore the navy-blue cloak of the Royal Library.
The silver emblem embroidered on the shoulder caught the morning light.
It still felt strange.
Just a few weeks ago, he had been an adventurer wandering from one town to another.
Now...
