I had the most wonderful surprise on the way back to the tower—Father and I passed through the town where my friends Anna, Thomas, and Mara live. It’s been so long since I’ve seen them, and just catching a glimpse of their familiar faces made my heart leap. We were only able to stay for a little while, but it was more than enough to remind me why I cherish them so much.
Anna was, of course, the first to spot me. She always has this uncanny ability to find me in a crowd, and her energy is like sunshine on the rainiest of days. Before I even stepped fully into the town square, she’d bounded up to me, her auburn braid swinging behind her as she enveloped me in the kind of hug that makes you forget everything else. She started talking a mile a minute, updating me on everything from her mother’s garden to some particularly juicy town gossip. I could barely keep up, but that’s Anna for you—brilliant and bold, with a heart as big as her curiosity.
Thomas joined us not long after, and I swear his grin could’ve rivaled the sun. His towering frame and calloused hands might intimidate strangers, but I know him better. He’s the gentlest giant, always ready with a laugh or a kind word. He insisted on showing me a new blacksmithing project he’d been working on—a stunning wrought iron gate for the town’s chapel. The intricate designs he’d crafted with his own hands were breathtaking, and I could see the pride in his eyes as he spoke about it. That’s Thomas—steady, dependable, and deeply passionate about everything he does.
And then there was Mara, quietly weaving her way through the bustling square until she appeared at my side like a shadow. She’s the calm to Anna’s storm, always thoughtful and deliberate. She didn’t say much at first, just smiled softly and held my hand like she always does. But later, as we wandered through the market, she told me about her work with the local healer and how she’s been learning to make tinctures and salves. Her gentle voice and the way she speaks with such care about helping others remind me why she’s the person I turn to when I need reassurance or comfort.
The four of us wandered the market together, slipping easily into the rhythms of our friendship as though no time had passed. We laughed, teased, and shared stories, and for a brief moment, it felt like we were kids again, with nothing to worry about except who could find the most delicious street snack. (It’s still Anna, by the way—her knack for sniffing out pastries is unparalleled.)
Saying goodbye was bittersweet, as it always is. We hugged tightly, promising to see each other again soon, though none of us knows when that might be. As I watched them wave from the square as Father and I rode away, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of sadness and joy. Sadness, because I miss them terribly when I’m gone, but joy, because even a brief visit reminds me of how lucky I am to have them in my life.
Anna, Thomas, and Mara—they’re not just friends. They’re my anchors, my laughter, and my heart. And even though I spend most of my time in the tower, away from the bustling life of the town, knowing they’re out there, living their vibrant lives, gives me a sense of connection to the world beyond my walls.
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