Chapter 4

Chapter 4: Isabel's Journey to the Palace

Isabel's POV

The next morning, I woke early and dressed carefully. I chose my best attire and packed my few belongings into a small bundle. Today was the day I would travel to the palace, carrying the letter that could change mine and my mother’s lives.

With my bundle in hand, I made my way to the small clinic where my mother was recovering. As I approached the room, I saw Mrs. Hawthorne already there, attending to mother with her usual kindness.

Despite all the hardships we had faced, I couldn’t help but feel the overwhelming gratitude. Even in these dire circumstances, we were blessed to have people like Mrs. Hawthorne who cared about us and were willing to help.

“Good morning,” I greeted softly, stepping inside.

Mrs. Hawthorne looked up and smiled warmly. “Good morning, Isabel. You look ready for your journey.”

“I am,” I replied, though my voice trembled slightly. I turned to my mother, who was sitting up in bed, looking stronger than before.

“Mother, I came to say goodbye before I leave,” I said and took her hand in mine.

She squeezed my hand while her eyes were filled with both pride and concern. “My dear Isabel, the day has come. I know this opportunity is important, but the palace is a world so different from ours.”

“I understand, mother,” I replied as I kept my voice steady with determination. “But I must do this for us. This opportunity could be the chance we need to change our lives.”

Mother sighed with her eyes softening. “I know, my dear. Just promise me you will be careful and wise in your actions. The palace can be treacherous for those who do not tread carefully.”

“I promise, mother,” I said, leaning in to kiss her forehead. “I will be cautious and mindful of everything I do. And I will come back to visit you as soon as I can.”

Mrs. Hawthorne stepped forward and placed a reassuring hand on my mother’s shoulder. “Do not worry, Teressa. I will look after you while Isabel is away. We shall manage together.”

Mother nodded, grateful for the support of her friend. “Thank you, Mrs. Hawthorne. Your kindness means so much to us.”

Finally, I stood up, took a deep breath and gathered all my courage. “I must go now. The journey to the palace will take some time.”

Mother’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. “Go with my blessing, my dear. You have always been my strength. May fortune favor you and keep you safe.”

I gave her one last hug, trying to keep my tears to myself and held her close for a moment longer. “I will make you proud, mother. I promise.”

“You already have,” she whispered.

As I finally pulled away from the hug, I could see the tears welling in her eyes. It was a moment filled with emotion, and I felt my heart twist painfully in my chest. I gave both her and Mrs. Hawthorne a respectful bow before walking out of the clinic, knowing I was leaving behind the two people who cared for me the most.

When I made my way, the reality of my departure hit me hard. My eyes stung with unshed tears as I stepped onto the path leading to the palace. I had no means to pay for a carriage or a horse, so I began the long walk with only my thoughts for company. Each step seemed heavier than the last, laden with my burdens and my worries and fears.

While I trudged along, I couldn’t help but think if I was making the right decision. I thought if it was right to leave my mother when she needed me the most. But then, the thought of my mother lying in that clinic bed, with her face pale and drawn but still managing a brave smile for my sake, and Mrs. Hawthorne who had always been there for us wiling to offer help and support without hesitation, woke me up from my own cowardness. They believed in me, and that belief was a lifeline I clung to.

The path ahead was uncertain and filled with potential dangers. The palace was a world unknown to me, a place of grandeur but also of hidden perils. I worried about making mistakes, about failing, but I pushed those fears aside. This journey was not just for me but it was for my mother, for our future.

And so as the towering walls of the palace finally came into view in the distance, my heart swelled with both anxiety and hope. I took a deep breath, straightened my shoulders, and continued on. No matter what awaited me behind those grand walls, I was ready to face it.