Return to Nostalgia

"Ow. Momma was right. It really is cold here." Ilene reached into the main city of Wisteria Dukedom, her faithful horse Damien carrying her through the winding streets.

The city bore little resemblance to the bustling, vibrant capital of Valkyrie. Here, the atmosphere was colder, quieter, and held an air of reserved elegance that sharply contrasted the vivacious spirit of her place.  She had always found solace in the simplicity of the city, which was a stark departure from the high society affairs that her family bore.

Stopping in front of a modest inn, Ilene dismounted and took a moment to collect herself. The innkeeper recognized her and kindly took care of Damien, promising her the horse's comfort. With a reassuring pat on Damien's neck, Ilene entered the inn and approached the front desk. She was there to retrieve a letter, a missive from her aunt, Lady Genevieve, which had informed her of her arrival.

"Good evening, Miss Valkyrie," the innkeeper greeted, a smile of familiarity gracing his features. "Your aunt's letter has been awaiting your arrival. Allow me to retrieve it for you."

Ilene nodded her thanks, her breath visible in the chilly air. The inn's interior was cozy and inviting, with a crackling fire in the hearth and the comforting aroma of a homecooked meal. 

The innkeeper returned with the letter, a sealed envelope bearing Lady Genevieve's elegant seal. Ilene accepted it with a grateful smile and proceeded to open the envelope. The contents were as she expected—an invitation to her aunt's estate, where she would receive lessons in high society etiquette.

It was the beginning of a journey she had resisted for years. She was here to bridge the gap between her free-spirited nature and the rigid expectations of her family. As she left the inn and made her way to Lady Genevieve's estate, she couldn't help but dwell on her personal connection to this place.

Wisteria Dukedom held a special significance for her, not only because it was her aunt's home but also because it was where she had been born and raised until her family had moved to the Valkyrie empire. Her father, a man of simpler tastes, had loved this city. It was the place where he had taken his last breaths, when Ilene was just a child.

She walked the cobbled streets, her boots echoing against the stones, and breathed in the crisp, chilly air. It was a place of memories, both cherished and bittersweet. Her mind drifted to her father's stern yet loving presence and the lessons he had imparted, lessons of independence and resilience.

Eventually, she arrived at the appointed meeting point—a small, serene park nestled within the city's heart. It was a place she had visited as a child, running through the maze of flowerbeds and listening to her father's tales of chivalry and adventure.

It was here that the maid, Miss Emily, appeared, emerging from a hidden pathway with an aura of grace and refinement. She was dressed impeccably, her attire a testament to Lady Genevieve's high standards.

"Good evening, Miss Valkyrie," Miss Emily greeted with a respectful curtsy. "I am Miss Emily, Lady Genevieve's maidservant. Lady Genevieve has been eagerly awaiting your arrival."

Ilene returned the greeting with a nod. "I am Ilene, and it is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Emily."

The two women, one poised and experienced, the other spirited and independent, were a study in contrasts. Ilene's attire was simple, a reflection of her reluctance to embrace high society's extravagance, while Miss Emily's clothing exuded elegance and tradition.

"Shall we proceed to Lady Genevieve's estate, Miss Valkyrie?" Miss Emily inquired, her voice polite and composed.

Ilene agreed, and they made their way to the awaiting carriage, a sleek, black vehicle adorned with the Genevieve family crest. As they stepped inside, Ilene couldn't help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over her.

The interior of the carriage was plush, with deep crimson upholstery and gleaming mahogany accents. The warmth of the space contrasted with the chill outside, and Ilene's mind wandered to the fond memories of the countless times she had ridden in similar carriages with her father.

The gentle sway of the carriage as it set into motion was a soothing rhythm, much like the lullabies her father used to sing to her. As the cityscape of Wisteria Dukedom passed by, Ilene couldn't help but reflect on her journey and the lessons that lay ahead. The nostalgia for her childhood and the presence of her father remained a bittersweet comfort, reminding her of the values he had instilled in her.

She looked out of the carriage window at the passing streets, her breath forming misty patterns on the glass. The city that had once been her home now felt like an unfamiliar place, a world apart from the bustling capital of Valkyrie.

Right after her father's death, Iris took her to Valkyrie capital which became their only resident. It was evident that Valkyrie empire was their place of origin, founded by her ancestors. Her father, Elliot, was once an almighty ruler of Valkyrie.

So, what really happened in the course of time that led him to abandon his title of king and live a modest life?

Her mother knows the possible mystery behind this, but she is not willing to share it with Ilene.

And yet, she knew that it was here, in Wisteria Dukedom, that she would embark on a journey to unravel the deep hidden secrets.

The journey continued, the carriage moving steadily toward Lady Genevieve's estate, where a new chapter of Ilene's life awaited her.