Before the Departure

In the morning light of Broughton, after a hearty breakfast of onion bread, fried eggs, and crispy beef bacon seasoned with Broughton's signature spices, Helena spent her time with Raphael preparing for his departure to Erast. 

Imogen, of course, was thrilled when she heard that Raphael would be joining them. With enthusiasm, she assisted Helena and Raphael in packing the young boy's essential belongings.

"I guarantee you won't ever want to come back to this freezing place once you've been to Erast!" Imogen declared enthusiastically. She had never been fond of cold places like Broughton. Warm beaches always sounded more appealing to her.

"I thought you liked Broughton, my lady!" Raphael said, feeling a tad offended that his hometown was being insulted.