Time to depart

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Leto stood resolute, ready to embark on a quest for glory in the tourney. Turning to his mother, he spoke with determination, "Mum, the time has come. I'll be leaving for the capital in a few hours."

As the sun's warm glow cast a bittersweet light on their faces, Asha's smile softened into a look of concern. "I know, my dear son," she whispered, her voice tinged with sadness. "Be careful out there." Her eyes held both pride and worry as she embraced Leto tightly, silently wishing him well on his journey to fame and glory in the tourney.

As Triston's wounds lingered, and Gerold took charge of fortifying the castle's defenses, Leto faced a difficult decision. Despite the bond they shared, he knew he had to leave his two trusted friends behind to pursue his quest for glory.

With a heavy heart, Leto bid them farewell, promising to return as soon as his duty was fulfilled. The weight of their friendship accompanied him on his journey, serving as both a source of strength and a reminder of the sacrifices he made for the greater good.

As Leto ventured forth, the realization struck him that the journey ahead was too daunting to face alone. In the midst of his departure, a steadfast resolve grew within him. "Nevertheless, I need at least one companion," Leto thought with determination.

Determined to find a companion for his journey, Leto made his way to the keep, tirelessly searching until he found Gerold. With a resolute look in his eyes, he approached his trusted friend and spoke with a mixture of humility and purpose.

"Gerold," Leto began, "I stand ready to seek glory in the tourney, but I cannot do it alone. I need a knight by my side, someone I can trust, someone who shares our values. Please, choose someone from among our ranks to accompany me on this journey."

Gerold's eyes met Leto's, a mix of pride and understanding in his gaze. He nodded solemnly, knowing the importance of this quest and the weight of his decision. "My lord," Gerold replied, "I will select a knight worthy of this honor, someone who will be your stalwart companion and safeguard your path."

With Gerold taking up the responsibility of choosing the right knight, Leto felt a sense of relief knowing that he would have a capable ally by his side. Their shared determination to uphold the honor of House Ravenheart and seek glory in the tourney bound them together.

As Leto sought a companion for his journey, Gerold's mind swiftly turned to one name: Ser Matthew. Though young, Ser Matthew had already proven himself to be a capable knight, displaying both skill and dedication in their past endeavors. Gerold's eyes sparkled with confidence as he shared his suggestion with Leto.

"My lord," Gerold proposed, "how about Ser Matthew? Though young, he has already proven his mettle in numerous battles. His courage and loyalty to House Ravenheart are unmatched, and I believe he would make an excellent companion on your journey."

Leto considered Gerold's suggestion, recalling the times he had witnessed Ser Matthew's unwavering commitment to the cause. A smile crept across Leto's face as he nodded in agreement. "Ser Matthew it is then," he said, gratitude evident in his voice. "I trust your judgment, Gerold, and I am certain Ser Matthew will be a worthy companion."

With Gerold taking up the responsibility of choosing the right knight, Leto felt a sense of relief knowing that he would have a capable ally by his side. Their shared determination to uphold the honor of House Ravenheart and seek glory in the tourney bound them together.

"Gerold ordered me to follow you, ser Leto," Ser Matthew stated with unwavering loyalty. "I am at your side, ready to face whatever lies ahead."

Leto's heart swelled with gratitude and trust. "Thank you, Ser Matthew," he replied, clasping the knight's shoulder in a gesture of camaraderie. "I am honored to have you as my companion. Together, we shall make our mark in the tourney and bring glory to House Ravenheart!"

With a firm nod, Ser Matthew's reply was succinct yet filled with determination. "Yes, ser," he affirmed, his unwavering loyalty evident in his voice.

"Let's set out," Leto declared, a fire of excitement and anticipation igniting within him. Ser Matthew echoed his enthusiasm with a resolute nod.

With their steeds beneath them, they rode side by side, leaving the comforts of the castle behind. The castle's towering walls gradually faded from view as they ventured further into the wide expanse of the world, the horizon beckoning them forward.

As Leto and Ser Matthew traveled along the big path, the landscape began to change, and the signs of approaching civilization grew more apparent. The path widened, and they could see the outlines of other travelers and merchants moving towards Atria. The excitement of the approaching capital filled the air, and a sense of anticipation enveloped the two companions.

Atria, the realm's capital, stood as a beacon of power and grandeur, housing the royal family of the Akratis kingdom to which House Ravenheart belonged. Leto's heart swelled with pride at the thought of representing his house in such a prestigious arena.

As they continued their journey, Leto couldn't help but ponder the significance of their quest. The tourney in Atria would not only test their mettle but also offer a chance to interact with nobles and knights from various houses. It was an opportunity to forge alliances, strengthen bonds, and showcase House Ravenheart's prowess to the realm.

With the sun as their guide, they ventured forth, hearts beating as one, ready to face the trials and triumphs that awaited them. As they pursued glory in the tourney, they knew that this journey was not only about personal achievement but also about upholding the legacy of House Ravenheart and honoring the sacrifices of those who came before them.

Now they were finally on their way to their first tourney. The path ahead was uncertain, but with Leto and Ser Matthew riding together, their spirits were unyielding, their courage unwavering. United in purpose and bound by their unbreakable bond, they were ready to make history and leave an indelible mark in the annals of time. As the sun set on the horizon, it marked not just the end of a day but the beginning of an extraordinary adventure, one that would test their mettle, challenge their spirits, and ultimately define their destiny. Leto and Ser Matthew rode on, filled with hope and the promise of greatness that awaited them in the realm's capital, Atria.