NOVEL NEXT Chapter 20: Mentor Selmor
Anezka's Pov
Once I finished getting ready, I made my way down the staircase, the enticing aroma of breakfast wafting through the air. Adrian sat beside me, his presence a comforting reassurance in the otherwise quiet atmosphere. As we enjoyed our meal, I felt a sense of relief that the morning was calm and uneventful, especially compared to the chaos of the night before.
After we cleared our plates, Adrian eagerly seized my hand and led me toward his chamber. As we walked through the hallways, I could hear the joyful laughter of our parents echoing behind us, their voices bubbling with excitement, as if they were already aware of Adrian's plans for the day.
As I stepped into his chamber, he gestured for me to sit on the edge of his neatly made bed, then moved to the other side, his movements fluid and purposeful.
I couldn't help but silently study him, he crouched down, rummaging through a small royal blue pouch that seemed to shimmer in the light. With a spark of excitement in his eyes, he settled beside me. "Sister, look at this! I've prepared everything for our adventure today," he exclaimed, extending the pouch toward me with a flourish.
Curiosity piqued, I accepted the bag, feeling its textured surface against my fingers. As I opened it, I discovered a mini torch, a little diary and a compass. Examining the contents left me feeling a mix of intrigue and confusion. "Are we going out to the forest?" I asked, my voice tinged with both anticipation and wonder.
"Yes and no?" Adrian's response stirred a whirlwind of confusion within me, a perplexity that was likely etched across my face. The moment he caught sight of my bewilderment, a soft chuckle escaped his lips, lighting up his expression like a mischievous spark.
I felt the heat of embarrassment rise to my cheeks. "I'm sorry, it's just I'm not accustomed to someone asking me such silly questions. I understand it's all new to you, which is why you're curious," he explained with a playful glint in his eye.
I couldn't shake the feeling that this little trickster was finding humor in my confusion. "Please, don't laugh at your elder sister! Just clarify what's puzzling me!" I huffed, a mock frown plastered on my face.
"Alright, alright, I'll tell you," he said, his tone shifting to one of seriousness, as the playful mischief faded away. "As members of the royal family, all the children of our family journey to the magnificent Forest of our kingdom, Gaelen—and that's Sherwood, of course. Our mentor, Selmor, is always there, guiding us through the towering trees and vibrant undergrowth, teaching us the vital importance of nature. He shows us how to nurture and protect our beautiful environment."
As I absorbed his words, I smiled thoughtfully, pondering the blend of knowledge and experience he described. "So, it's like a school lecture, but with hands-on lessons? And you're getting all excited as if we're setting off on some grand adventure?" I asked, envisioning the thrill of exploration in those ancient woods.
"Indeed, it's a practical, hands-on lesson type of school lecture, but sister, Selmor isn't your average school teacher. He embodies the spirit of adventure, giving us the freedom to explore the enchanting forest and unravel its many mysteries among the lush green woods. Each time we stumble upon something wondrous, his eyes light up with encouragement, making the experience feel even more magical. Selmor is my favorite mentor; he allows all four of us to wander joyfully through the forest, basking in the thrill of discovery. And if we ever find ourselves in a little trouble, he swiftly comes to our rescue, teaching us invaluable lessons through those very challenges." He spoke with palpable excitement, as if Selmor were the ultimate guide in our grand adventure.
However, a flicker of concern tugged at my thoughts. "But he's only one guide for the five of us. Today, I'll be joining all of you—Aella, Aiden, Hayes, you, and me—all cousins. We won't be treading the same paths in the forest. Just as you mentioned, we each have the freedom to roam wherever we please. How is Mentor Selmor supposed to keep track of all five of us at once?"
As I voiced my concern, Adrian's eyes sparked with excitement, illuminating his face with a lively glimmer. He sprang off the bed like a coiled spring, his enthusiasm radiating through the air. "That's where the real adventure begins, my sister!" he exclaimed, his voice vibrant with energy.
"But I can't spoil the surprise; Mentor Selmor always insists on introducing himself to newcomers. He dislikes others speaking for him, and honestly, the way he introduces himself is far more captivating than anything anyone else could muster." His words stirred a whirlwind of curiosity within me, making me question everything I thought I knew about Mentor Selmor.
I had never been one to enjoy the shadows of uncertainty; the notion of mysteries began to gnaw at the corners of my mind, teasing my curiosity. Yet, deep down, I knew that if I pushed for more answers, Adrian would only remain tight-lipped. The fervor in his voice as he sang the praises of Mentor Selmor ignited an eagerness within me; I longed to meet the man himself rather than merely basking in the tales of his extraordinary reputation.
My train of thought was suddenly shattered by a sharp knock on the door, echoing in the quiet room. Adrian swung it open, revealing a cheerful maid standing there with a bright smile. She announced that all our cousins were ready and waiting for us, urging us to join the lively gathering.
Adrian made his way to me, his warm grip enveloping my right hand while his left arm cradled the distinctive blue bag, a symbol of our upcoming adventure. "Oof, sister!" he chuckled. "You get lost in your thoughts far too easily! Now, let's not dawdle. I promise that once we arrive, you'll find yourself just as excited as I am to visit Sherwood again and again." His enthusiasm was infectious, sparking a flicker of anticipation in my heart.
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"And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul."
- By John Muir