Having received her grandmother's terse blessing, Elara felt a surge of exhilarating purpose. The silence of the study, usually so heavy with history and expectation, now seemed to hum with anticipation. She made a quick, efficient exit, not bothering to linger. The time for contemplation was over; the time for action had begun.
She practically flew through the polished halls of the van Hatte mansion, bypassing the lingering house mages and ignoring the curious glances that followed her swift passage. Her mind was already on the next steps, mentally cataloging the supplies she would need. The Blackberry Wilds Forest was no place for a leisurely stroll; it demanded proper preparation.
Bursting out of the estate gates and into the bustling streets of Veridian, Elara was immediately engulfed in the city's vibrant energy. The sun was higher now, illuminating the intricate magical sigils etched into the very cobblestones, a testament to Veridian's deep arcane roots. Merchants hawked their wares, their voices a melodic cacophony, while colorful arcane lights pulsed from shop windows.
Her first stop was 'The Alchemist's Cauldron,' a cramped, aromatic shop known for its potent potions and sturdy gear. She quickly acquired a sturdy, enchanted hunting knife that hummed faintly in her grip, a waterskin woven with preservation spells, and a pouch of concentrated mana restoratives. As she paid, the elderly proprietor, a wizened dwarf named Borin, eyed her with a knowing glint. "Heading somewhere interesting, young van Hatte?" he grumbled, counting out her change.
Elara offered a rare, genuine smile. "Somewhere challenging, Borin."
As she exited, laden with her purchases, she heard a familiar shout. "Elara! Wait up!"
Turning, she saw them: Lysander, his silver hair a stark contrast to his dark, mischievous eyes, and Seraphina, her usually composed demeanor broken by a wide grin. They were her closest friends outside the rigid structure of the van Hatte clan, fellow mages from other prominent Veridian families.
"Where are you off to in such a hurry, laden like a supply caravan?" Lysander teased, gesturing to her parcels.
"And looking so grim for someone so celebrated!" Seraphina added, nudging her playfully. "Heard you were practically a legend in the city's latest gossip circles after your sparring session with Kael."
Elara chuckled, a genuine, unburdened sound. "Hardly. I'm preparing for the Rite. Grandmother has given me leave to spend the next two weeks in the Blackberry Wilds."
Lysander's jaw dropped slightly. "The Wilds? Alone? Elara, that's... ambitious. Even for you."
"Are you serious?" Seraphina's eyes widened. "People get lost in there, or worse. The spirits are not the only dangers. There are true beasts."
"Precisely," Elara reiterated, her voice firm. "I need to push myself, beyond controlled environments. The Rite demands more than just spells; it demands resilience and instinct."
Seraphina hugged her tightly. "Be careful, Elara. Promise us you'll be safe."
"I promise to be stronger," Elara corrected, a determined gleam in her eyes. "Now, I must go. I have more preparations to make."
They parted ways, their faces a mix of concern and grudging admiration. Elara felt a warmth in her chest – a connection to her friends that was different from the demanding pride of her family.