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Chapter 3 - Necessary Preparations

Sir Arvion apologises, "I am afraid I cannot help you with that".

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Ysolde and Ellowen set out to find Sir Arvion. Both were in high spirits. While Ysolde set on fulfilling the dream she once thought was impossible, Ellowen dreamt of how they'd live lavish lives once this plan of theirs finally bears fruit.

On their way Ellowen kept discussing of what supplies they should pack for the journey, what clothes should they wear, how it would be difficult for them to adjust in the high society since the know nothing about those etiquettes, etc. 

Ellowen's optimistic and cheerful personality balanced perfectly with Ysolde's quiet mannerisms. While Ellowen was someone who inspired Ysolde to dream big, Ysolde became someone who never undermined Ellowen's big dreams.

As the pair talked, they soon reached the knights' quarters and met with Sir Arvion. 

He chuckles as he says, "What are you two ladies during here this? Don't tell me you are here to see how we take care of crooks like Gerard?"

The two got flustered as they say, "No no Sir! We are here to ask for some help".

They spoke about their plans on going to the capital.

Sir Arvion paid close attention to the ladies' plan. Once they were done elaborating, Sir Arvion speaks up,

"With Miss Ysolde's voice I am certain she will be able to grasp a position in the capital, However...", Sir Arvion apologises, "I am afraid I cannot help you with that".

Sir Arvion explains how he is a knight stationed to look after their town and even if he was free of his duties, he cannot escort anyone except the members of the royal family. At times a knight can accompany another individual however even then it has to be the royal family who would have given orders to them for accompanying the other person.

The two felt embarrassed. The fact that they couldn't make a royal knight be their travel guide had completely slipped through their minds.

Ellowen then asks Sir Arvion, "Sir in that case if we were to journey alone and reach the capital would we be able to execute our plan smoothly without any help?"

"The capital is not as welcoming to outsiders as you are thinking. Adding to that there are many individuals who would be large obstacles in your path.The person who holds the highest regard in the music sector of the capital is Raschik Vijyore, a tyrant known for eliminating any individual who appears to be a threat in his path of retaining his title as the kingdom's 'Prima Sonate' ".

'Prima Sonate' is Miranor's highest musical honour bestowed by the royal family upon the greatest musician of Miranor. It is said that their music commands hearts, silence the courts, and shape the very souls of the living.

Despite, Raschik being an individual with a sadistic personality and wicked mindset, his talent of composing music is second to none.

Ysolde falls into a spiral of thoughts, she is aware that without some strong support its impossible for her to follow her plan, also her talent lies in singing alone. Composing scores were never her strength. She performed the pieces of others, never her own. She and her lover had once thought of finding someone who is able to compose original songs but their search was fruitless.

"Finding a composer would not be impossible in the capital. So, our first step should be to find someone who would be our guide to the capital.

But neither I nor Ellie have enough funds to pay someone for being our guide. I am afraid we have to look for someone who would help us for free...

But how do we find someone like that?"

Ysolde was shaken out of her thoughts by Ellowen who suggests having a meal,

"You need to eat properly if you want that little brain of yours to function", Ellowen says as she flicks Ysolde's forehead.

They have a nice laugh about it and then take their leave from the quarters.

"If you need suggestions feel free to ask me and also, I would help you as much as I am able to!", yells Sir Arvion as they leave.

Ysolde and Ellowen take a seat at a small inn. As they were eating a little boy hands them a flyer,

"BY ORDER OF THE HOUSE OF OTHEUS

On the joyous occasion of our Duke Otheus's Birthday, his generosity shall be extended to all. Free garments and rations will be bestowed upon every citizen from the church."

Ysolde gasps, "Ellie this is what we need!"

Ysolde then goes on explaining on the occasion of the Duke's birthday there would certainly be performances which include a musical too.

"Everyone knows how kind-hearted our Lord is. If I am able to win his acknowledgement, we might be able to ask for a favour in return. However..." Ysolde pauses, "I have never sung without him, I do not know if I can do it. I do not know if my voice sounds the same.."

Ellowen holds her hands and says, "You have your usual audience here. Why don't you try once"

Ysolde looks around the crowd, the same old crowd she used to sang to. 

She takes a deep breath and starts singing, the crowd gathers enchanted by her voice, 

"The wind carries her song so true,

Through empty alleys and morning dew.

Every note, a thread, a hymn,

Leading her Where her voice finds him."

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