When Ethan stepped into his room, his heart was still racing. These new feelings he had for Rowena both excited and scared him. They had been friends for years, but now things were different. Could he be feeling more than just friendship? This thought kept circling in his mind.
Trying to gather himself, he sat at his desk and decided to write to his brother before dinner. He began to think about the letter he would write to Emris. The letters would symbolize the new bond he was forming with his brother. "La Edri," Ethan murmured, contemplating Emris wanting to be addressed that way. A name filled with uncertainty and mystery… It reflected the turmoil and cautious stance Emris had towards the world.
Ethan placed the letter paper in front of him and started writing:
Dear La Edri,
There is so much to tell you about life in Ravenna. My friends Harry, Pamela, Lydia, and I have been different since we found out you were innocent. They want to help you too, you should know that. I returned to Ravenna this morning and reunited with everyone I used to know. Rowena, Willy, and John met me in front of the palace. But Rowena... Rowena has changed so much. It feels like she's more than just a friend now. My heart races when I look at her. I don't know what this means. I'm a bit confused.
I hope we can meet soon. We will work together to thwart Derek's game and reveal the truth. This kingdom is yours, and I will stand by you.
Not much has changed in Ravenna. The palace is still the same; the nobles are still pursuing their own interests. But there is a sense here, a hope that things will change. I can feel this hope, and you are the source of it.
Take care of yourself, La Edri. I will write more soon.
With love,
Ethan
When Ethan finished the letter, he took a deep breath. He had managed to put some of the confusion in his mind onto paper. He folded the letter, placed it in an envelope, and wrote "La Edri" on it, adding the address for the letter's delivery. He would seek the help of a trusted messenger to ensure the letter reached Emris.
When he descended to the great hall for dinner, Rowena, Willy, and John were waiting for him. Rowena's smile warmed his heart but also made him even more nervous. He didn't know what to do; these new feelings had almost paralyzed him. During dinner, conversations were had, jokes were made, but Ethan's mind constantly drifted to Rowena. Every smile, every glance pulled him deeper.
As the night ended, Ethan returned to his room. But this time, he was restless. His devotion to Emris and the desire to save him, combined with the new feelings he had for Rowena... Everything together had turned his mind into a tangled knot.
Ethan lay on his bed, unable to sleep. Thoughts of Rowena and Emris kept bouncing back and forth in his mind. "What should I do?" he asked himself. "How should I make sense of these feelings?"
The next day, Ethan rose early and delivered the letter to a trusted messenger. This letter, reaching Emris, would strengthen the bond between them. There was a slight excitement and hope within him.
Rowena suggested visiting Mikmak Village that day, and Ethan eagerly agreed, setting off together. Along the way, they reminisced about the old days, enjoying the beauty of nature.
When they arrived at the village, Wenona greeted them with a warm smile. "Welcome!" she said joyfully. "It's so nice to see you!"
Ethan and Rowena entered Wenona's house. Inside, Wenona's newborn sister, Mitena, was sleeping peacefully in her crib. Her tiny face, with its innocent baby-like expression, captivated them. Wenona proudly showed her sister off.
"This is Mitena," she said proudly. "Her name means 'new moon'."
Ethan and Rowena adored Mitena with affection. When the baby opened her eyes briefly and looked at them, a smile appeared on her face. It felt as if she knew them.
"Such a sweet baby," Rowena said. "I love her!"
Ethan nodded, adding, "She really is adorable. She brings new joy to your family."
They spent some more time in the village, chatting with the people of Mikmak. The peaceful atmosphere of the village slightly alleviated Ethan's inner turmoil.
Later, they set out for Shadowbrook to visit Raidne. The town was lively and bustling as usual. When they arrived at Raidne's house, it was Raidne herself who opened the door.
"Ethan! Rowena! Welcome!" she exclaimed. Seeing her friends made her very happy. "Come in, I want you to meet someone."
Inside the house, a middle-aged but youthful-looking woman was sitting in the living room. Her long, wavy chestnut hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her hazel eyes carried a warm and cheerful expression. A few freckles on her face added a cute touch. Her simple yet elegant dress showcased her refined style.
"Diana, these are my friends Ethan and Rowena," Raidne introduced. "Friends, this is my closest friend, Diana."
Diana smiled warmly, saying, "I'm so glad to meet you."
Ethan and Rowena introduced themselves as well. They all sat down and began chatting. Diana started telling them about the funny and interesting events that had happened in the town recently. When she recounted how Mr. Thompson's goat had eaten vegetables at the market, causing everyone to chase after it, everyone burst into laughter.
"And the funniest," Diana continued, "was the other day when we saw a strange bird chasing a dog and a cat around the town square. It was like their roles were reversed!"
Raidne laughed, adding, "Shadowbrook is always full of surprises. You never get bored here."
Ethan felt relaxed amidst this joyful conversation. Spending time with his friends gave him peace. At the same time, he noticed how cheerful and lively Diana was.
They spent the day together, exploring the town and refreshing old memories. By the evening, Ethan and Rowena bid farewell to return to the palace.
"Thanks for today," Ethan said to Raidne and Diana. "It was truly a wonderful day."
Rowena hugged them, saying, "Let's meet again soon."
As they walked back to the palace, Ethan and Rowena shared memories of the day, making plans for the future. Ethan felt the chaos inside him gradually being replaced by a sense of peace. His life was gaining meaning through his friends and family.