With a final nod of acknowledgement, Audrey turned to take her leave. She promptly made her way out of the palace.
As she stepped out into the crisp northern air, she took a deep breath.
At the same time, the carriage, adorned with intricate golden trimmings and the royal crest of Bluerive Palace, rolled up to the main entrance of the palace. It was a carriage prepared by the palace for her daily commute.
The sound of hooves clattering on the cobblestone echoed through the courtyard as the horses came to a graceful stop.
The carriage driver, dressed in a finely tailored uniform, skillfully guided the horses to a halt.
Audrey immediately ascended the carriage steps, the golden carriage door creaking open to welcome her.
The plush velvet seats, adorned with intricate embroidery, beckoned her inside. She settled herself onto the seat, feeling the comfort of the soft cushions.
As the carriage began to move, Audrey leaned back, allowing herself a moment of tranquillity. The rhythmic clatter of the horses' hooves created a soothing melody, and the gentle rocking of the carriage lulled her thoughts into a calm state.
Her mind wandered back to the encounters she had experienced just now.
Upon reaching the port, Audrey's assistant, ever efficient and reliable, was already waiting for her on the steamship.
Audrey greeted her with a nod and a warm smile, well aware of the importance of their mission and the need for a swift departure.
Boarding the ship that awaited them, Audrey took a moment to observe the picturesque view of the port.
Ships of all sizes were preparing for their voyages. The sound of sailors shouting orders filled the air, together with the sounds of seagulls and distant ocean waves which added to the maritime atmosphere.
Before long, the steamship set sail.
Audrey stood on the deck, feeling the cool breeze brushing against her face for one last time. For afar, her eyes gaze at the palace and the city that gradually fade into the distance.
The sound of a toddler's laughter that had once filled those halls now lingered in her memory, a reminder of the precious connections she had made during her time in the north.
....
At the same time as Audrey departed from the north, Oldman Dunn is strolling through the lively streets of Krigos.
His mind was set on continuing his journey to Klover, the city where the influential Klover family was based.
After diligently conducting his research, Oldman Dunn had learned of the finest horsecart services in Krigos.
Following the directions he had gathered, he finally stood in front of the establishment that had garnered exceptional praise among travellers and locals alike.
"I think this is it." said the old man, "But... Well, this doesn't look as reliable as many people said." Oldman Dunn commented with a tinge of disappointment in his tone.
The building before him was far from what he had envisioned based on the exceptional praise it had received.
Instead of exuding an air of sophistication and reliability, the building appeared rather ordinary and unremarkable. Its facade lacked the grandeur and elegance he had expected, with simple wooden beams and plain brickwork that seemed to blend in with the surrounding structures.
The sign above the entrance, though displaying the name "Cozy Carriages," looked weathered and faded, giving it an appearance of neglect. The once vibrant colours had dimmed, making it almost unnoticeable amidst the other signs on the street.
There were no colourful flowers adorning the windowsills, no ornate carvings depicting majestic horses, and no banners proudly displaying the family crest.
Instead, the windows appeared slightly dirty, and the curtains inside were drawn, hinting at a lack of attention to detail.
Oldman Dunn couldn't help but wonder if he arrive at the wrong location. But after rechecking his simple hand-drawn map, it is definitely this seemingly unremarkable establishment.
Nonetheless, he reminded himself that appearances could be deceiving.
Oldman Dunn entered the establishment, hoping that the interior might provide a better impression.
As he stepped inside, he was greeted by a rather modest and unpretentious setting. The space was simple, with minimal decorations and furnishings.
At least the attendants inside seemed friendly and approachable, ready to cater to the needs of their customers.
"Good day, esteemed customer," the attendant said with a practised smile as the old man approach the desk. "How may Cozy Carriages serve you?"
"Good day," Oldman Dunn replied, offering a polite nod in return. "I'm in need of a reliable horsecart to take me to Klover."
The attendant's smile widened, exuding a genuine warmth. "Ah, Klover, you say? It's a very popular route for many, esteemed customer," she said, her voice friendly and accommodating. "We have to check the availability of the carriage and driver for your journey. Would you prefer to travel alone or in a group?"
"Alone if possible, and I also need to go to Klover as soon as possible," Oldman Dunn replied.
He really prefers to not interact with anyone for the entire two days trip. And travelling alone would also offer him more control over the situation.
The attendant quickly checked their schedule, her fingers deftly flipping through the pages of a large ledger.
"I'm sorry, sir, the earliest carriage I can arrange for solo travel is four days from now," she informed him apologetically. "However, if you are fine with travelling with other people, there's one spot left for tomorrow's journey."
Oldman Dunn sighed in frustration. "What a bad luck," he muttered under his breath.
Time was of the essence, and waiting for four days was simply too much of a delay.
After a moment of contemplation, he reluctantly made up his mind. "Put my name in for tomorrow's journey," he said decisively, recognizing the need to proceed with the available option.
The attendant nodded, jotting down his name on the schedule. "Very well, sir. You are now booked for tomorrow's journey to Klover. Our driver and carriage will be ready to depart early in the morning. We apologize for the inconvenience, sir," she said sincerely.
Oldman Dunn nodded halfheartedly. "Thank you. Perhaps considering additional carriages in the future might help." he said before leaving the premise.
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