Mrs Patton looked agitated, glancing frantically, why would she suddenly do this the last time this happened was several years ago. She went to the man she got the last goods from but nothing, walking further she met the fish monger now at the local market.
I didn't see that brat of yours, very uncultured Misses, she must have been the one running atop mi roof. Go to the south of the market, down to the local market, you might find that little weasle there, spat the man.
Thank you, replied Lydia, even if she didn't like the way the man spoke about her daughter she didn't express displeasure, she rushed down the road sometimes calling her name, she didn't stop asking people, most people ignored her and some nodded in uncertainty, she still called out to her tiredly, she just walked preparing to report her missing to the magistrate.
The man who she had followed finally stopped he turned back to the source of the voice and confusion evident on his face, this time took a few steps back to this girl who still walked carefully with streams of tears by her eyes.
Drae stopped at her tracks with a fallen face but still she summoned courage to ask the man.
Do you know my father.
Child do you follow every man you suspect to a lonely road all in suspect of your father, do you want to get yourself harmed.
I'm sorry you look very much like my father.
If I had a daughter I'm pretty sure I would recognise her, I believed you were a simple spy trying to tail me.
That is a stupid a move kid, don't do that.
Drae looked at him, he looked just as young as her father was when he went missing, this man's skin was paler, he had straight brown hair he packed behind and red moustache, he might have dyed one and also he had a scar across his face, it looked very old or more. He looked similar but it wasn't him.
Lady Lydia just walked aimlessly and giving up hope at the corner of her eyes as she walked back she saw a girl and man conversing at the path which led to the village farm.
Hydrangea was what she Drae, she said it sounded similar to Hyeindrae.
On hearing her mother, Drake's eyes snapped behind, she saw Mrs Patton run towards her, which several expressions she could not place.
Drae took a step saying Mr I'm sorry for disturbing you but on looking back the man had disappeared.
Drae where did you run off to, I have told you before no running off or climbing it's not lady like, by this time, Mrs Patton hugged her and the fear in her voice wasn't missed, she hugged her tightly. The country isn't safe, stop running off.
I saw him Lydia was all Drae.
Who did you see Mrs Patton took her hand.
No one Drae continued, I'm sorry for running off, it won't happen again I just thought to give a little look before heading home.
I understand was all Mrs Patton said.
Hyeindrae I am disappointed at you, i thought we spoke about this said Mr Patton as he was already briefed on what happened by Olivia, he waited patiently for them to come home.
After a couple of scolding Mr Patton sighed in defeat.
I understand that you still have hope but the country isn't safe, promise me you won't leave us worried again.
Drae nodded in affirmation.
No Drae promise me Mr Patton demanded.
I promise.
The Patton's family had supper early as they were to pack for their trip to the main city the next day, they were to complete preparations and head out the next day.
The hastened and soon had to retire to bed.
The sun's early rays peeked over the village of Willowdale, casting a warm glow over the Patton family's cozy cottage.
Excitement filled the air as they prepared for their grand adventure to the main city, to the majestic castle of Darton.
Mr Patton, as a skilled cobbler, checked the sturdy house carriage which was only used on special occasions like this one or when Mr Patton travels to the main city, ensuring the luggage was securely tied. Lady Lydia supervised the final preparations, her efficient packing a testament to her modern sensibilities.
They made a quick visit to the seamstress they tacked everything necessary.
Lady Shivani advised the young girls to keep to their current weight, don't eat less or more. Drae found that ridiculous so one should not fill their stomachs because of a dress but anyways nodded in affirmation and went home
Olivia, their eldest daughter, flitted about, her pretty face aglow with anticipation. Matt, the energetic lad , chased after blue eye, the family's lively cat, laughing as the feline darted under the furniture. Drae smiled quietly, her eyes shining with undoubtful excitement.
As the family finished their morning routines, the atmosphere grew more expectant. Mister Patton took a moment to inspect his leather satchel, ensuring he had all the necessary tools for any unexpected repairs during their journey.
"We'll make an early start, then?" Lady Lydia asked, her voice laced with a mix of excitement and trepidation.
"Aye, my dear," Mister Patton replied, "we'll depart at dawn. The road to the main city is long, and I want to ensure we arrive at the castle with plenty of time to spare. It's a three-day journey by caravan, and we'll need to make good time if we're to reach the city before nightfall on the third day."
The family spent the rest of the day finalizing their preparations, checking the wagon's wheels, and restocking their supplies. Lady Lydia made sure they had enough provisions for the journey, while Mister Patton checked the horses' hooves and saddles.
Olivia and Drae helped with the packing, their giggles filling the air as they tried to fit one more item into the already-crowded wagon. Matt, meanwhile, practiced his horsemanship, riding the family's gentle mare around the neighbourhood green.
As night began to fall, the Pattons gathered around the fireplace, their faces aglow with excitement and anticipation. They talked about the wonders they would see in the city, the castle, and royal Land grand gathering.
Lady Lydia reminded them to be mindful of their manners and to stay together at all times. Mister Patton reassured them that they would be fine, that he had traveled to the city before and knew the roads well.
The family retired to their cozy beds, their minds racing with visions of the wonders they would see and experience in the city.
Tomorrow would bring a new chapter in their lives, filled with uncertainty and possibility. With a collective deep breath, they drifted off to sleep, ready to face whatever the journey ahead might bring. The night was indeed filled with the unknown only the morning bore the fruits of the night