Dawn cracked over the horizon at Coastal Town, soft amber light gilding the harbor where the young King Aeron and his people prepared to board their boats. The air carried the scent of brine and distant pine, and the bustle of preparation filled the coastal wind with voices and movement.
Mahikan stood beside the young king, tightening the strap of his satchel. "My king," he asked, eyeing the foggy seas ahead, "what do you know of Pelland?"
Aeron, still adjusting the collar of his cloak, turned to Lady Celestine. "Not much... Lady Celestine? Could you tell us more about Pelland?"
Lady Celestine, wrapped in her ocean-blue robe, smiled gently. "Pelland lies northwest of Whalefall Province, across calm but wide seas. It is an island, ancient and untouched for the most part, inhabited by tribes whose lineage stretches back millennia. Lady Quarterene made contact with them during her early reign, and through diplomacy and genuine friendship, she earned their trust."
