Chapter 8

As the sun rises on another morning in the farm, Mark wakes up to the soft Summer rays of dawn gently illuminating his room. Stretching his arms and shaking off the last remnants of sleep, he prepares himself for another day of tending to the land he loves so dearly. The anticipation of what the day might bring fills him with excitement imagining his life with Keira.

As he heads to the kitchen, the delightful aroma of curry fills the air, a comforting scent that has become a staple in their home. Mark takes pride in cooking this traditional dish for Keira, who now enjoys it with a more reasonable appetite every day. Gone are the days of preparing an abundance of food, replaced by a newfound balance that brings joy to both their hearts.

After ensuring that Keira is settled and content, Mark readies himself for a day of tending to his beloved ranch. The morning sun casts a golden hue on the farm, and the gentle breeze whispers through the fields, inviting him to embrace the day's work. With a sense of purpose, he stocks the fridge with freshly made curry, knowing that Keira will have a comforting meal waiting for her.

Putting on his sturdy work boots and gloves, Mark grabs his trusty rucksack, containing the tools he needs for the day's tasks. As he glances back towards the house, he finds Keira standing at the doorway, a picture of elegance and grace. Her presence brings a warm glow to his heart, reinforcing his determination to provide her with the best life possible.

"Bye Keira, take care of the house while I'm gone," Mark calls out with a tender smile.

Keira returns his gesture with an elegant bow. "Have a safe day. I pray that you return home soon."

With a heart full of happiness, Mark steps out of the house. The morning air embraces him, carrying with it the scents of fresh dew, blooming crops, and the earth's rich soil. After many years working on the farm, the scent has become ingrained in his very being, made only better with the addition of his wife.

Once Mark sets off for work, Keira springs into action, her first destination being the fridge. Despite just being fed, she still craves more curry. She reaches inside and retrieves another plate of curry, the delightful colors already whetting her appetite. With swift and practiced movements, she places the plate into the microwave, her eyes fixated on the spinning dish as she eagerly waits for it to warm.

As the microwave emits a soft ding, Keira retrieves the steaming plate, cradling it carefully in her hands. The warmth of the food adds to the coziness of the moment, and she decides to enjoy her meal in the comfort of the living room. With a determined stride, Keira heads towards the inviting embrace of the couch, where she can relish her curry while watching some entertainment on the television.

As she sits down and settles in, the allure of the TV captures her attention. The remote control rests within her reach, offering her access to a vast world of entertainment. A sense of excitement bubbles within her as she contemplates the myriad of possibilities that lie before her. There are familiar shows she watched just yesterday, and the desire to follow their captivating stories tugs at her. On the other hand, there are other channels with new programs she has yet to discover, beckoning her to embark on fresh adventures.

Caught in this delightful dilemma, Keira realizes that time is a limited resource, and she chuckles at the impossibility of watching everything in a single day. Nevertheless, the abundance of options brings a sense of contentment, knowing that she can explore and indulge in different narratives whenever she desires. With a blissful sigh, Keira presses a button on the remote, ready to immerse herself in the enchanting world of storytelling once again.

After spending some time engrossed in television, the sound of a knock on the door jolts Keira from her leisurely state. Her heart skips a beat, and a moment of nervousness washes over her as she wonders who could be at the door. Reminding herself that Mark has the keys and no one is expected to visit, she hesitates for a moment, instinctively recalling the lessons from her past life as royalty, where she was taught to never answer the door herself.

In those days, it was customary for servants to handle such matters, ensuring the safety and protection of her family from potential threats. But life in Forget-Me-Not Valley has proven to be a world away from the secluded walls of her former palace. Here, she has come to know the villagers as warm and genuine, living in harmony with nature and one another. The thought of danger or ill intentions seems out of place in this close-knit community.

Taking a deep breath, Keira tries to shake off her old teachings and approaches the door with caution. She peeks through the peephole, finding Flora standing on the other side. As she prepares to open the door, her heart's rhythm gradually calms, she knows Flora well enough to let her in.

Keira's day brightens as she welcomes Flora. Keira greets her with a graceful bow, "hello Lady Flora, how can I assist you today?"

Flora returns the gesture with a warm smile. "Hi Keira. How is life in the valley?"

"I am doing very well," Keira replies with a warm smile. "I was in the middle of enjoying some television. Would you like to join me?"

"Actually, I was hoping that you could come back to the dig site with me. Is that okay with you?"

Keira gasps softly, taken aback by the unexpected request. The thought of returning to the place where she was discovered stirs a mixture of emotions within her. While part of her feels slightly uneasy about revisiting the past, another part becomes increasingly curious. From what Mark had told her, her old room deep in the mines has been completely destroyed and is now inaccessible. She wonders what reason Flora might have for wanting her to return to the dig site.

"I'll have to wait for Mark to return home," Keira responds hesitantly, her uncertainty evident in her voice. "I would not want him to worry if he doesn't find me here."

"Don’t worry about that. I already spoke to Mark; he's perfectly fine with me taking you back to the site."

Despite the lingering nervousness, Keira decides to trust Flora's judgment. She has proven to be a reliable friend and ally, and Keira is eager to find out the reason for her invitation to the dig site. With a deep breath, she musters the courage to embark on this unexpected journey and follows Flora back to the location where the archaeological expedition is taking place.

The dig site is quite a distance from the farm, Keira makes sure to stay close to Flora. As Keira walks beside Flora, the surrounding landscape comes alive with the colors of the Summer sun. The vibrant hues of the flowers and the gentle rustle of the leaves create a harmonious symphony that calms her nerves. She finds herself grateful for the beauty that surrounds her, providing a soothing distraction from her anxious thoughts.

Upon arriving at the dig site, Keira is warmly greeted by Carter. "Welcome, Keira! You look so much healthier since we last met," Carter exclaims with genuine joy, his eyes twinkling with delight.

"You must be Lord Carter! I apologize if I didn't recognize you, but your voice is very familiar." Keira bows gracefully, displaying the poise and elegance she has acquired from her royal upbringing. "I never had the chance to express my gratitude for helping me out of the mines with Mark and Flora. Thank you."

Carter's face lights up with appreciation for Keira's kind words. "The pleasure was all mine, Keira. I'm so glad that you are doing well." His expression takes on a more lighthearted tone as he adds, "I was quite surprised when Flora told me that you married Mark. Is he treating you well?"

"Yes, Mark is a wonderful husband. I have learned so much from him, and he has been nothing but kind and patient with me," she responds, a touch of pride in her voice.

"I'm happy to hear that," said Carter. He then turns and walks towards the large tent set up nearby, gesturing for Keira to follow him inside. Flora walks alongside Keira, excitement evident in her every step. "Follow me inside. I have some things I want to show you," Carter says, his voice carrying a hint of mystery.

Keira's curiosity intensifies as she steps into the tent, her eyes widening in awe at the sight before her. The interior is filled with an array of magnificent artifacts, each carefully displayed on tables adorned with soft velvety cloth. She gasps softly, barely believing her eyes, as she walks past ancient relics that have been meticulously excavated over the years.

Many of the items trigger fond memories of her old days when the castle stood tall, a symbol of her royal heritage. She reaches out to touch a delicate vase, its intricate designs still captivating after centuries of being hidden beneath the earth. The design is clearly of Hanabishi culture.

"This is incredible," Keira murmurs, her voice filled with awe and wonder. "To think that these items have survived all this time, waiting to be rediscovered."

As Keira continues to examine the artifacts one by one, she discovers a fascinating array of treasures that have survived the test of time. Among the jewelry crafted by Hanabishi blacksmiths, she finds delicate necklaces adorned with shimmering gems, their vibrant colors still captivating even after centuries buried beneath the earth. Broaches lays on the table with the emblem of the Hanabishi clan. Even the smallest pairs of earrings were also discovered, each of them has shiny gems set in them. Each piece reflects the artistry and craftsmanship of her people, a testament to the enduring legacy of her royal lineage.

Her fingers brush over old stones shaped like small suns, each with colors representing different seasons. The smooth surfaces feel cool to the touch, as if carrying the essence of the passing years within them. Keira marvels at the symbolism behind these ancient sunstones, connecting her to the cyclical nature of the valley and its harmonious relationship with the changing seasons.

Ancient tablets come into view, bearing intricate writings in her native language. Though damaged, worn, and faded, they still hold a certain enchantment, preserving fragments of stories and knowledge from eras long gone. Keira feels a sense of reverence as she studies these ancient inscriptions, as if she can almost hear the whispers of her people echoing through time.

Among the artifacts, she discovers fossils of long-extinct creatures. She remembers that many magical creatures also lived in the castle, their ancient remains serving as a link between the past and the present. Her heart breaks for the loss of life that couldn’t make it out of the castle in time.

As she moves from one artifact to another, Keira is struck by the depth of the valley's heritage. Each object, each relic, is like a puzzle piece, fitting into the larger narrative of the history of her people. The artifacts are not merely lifeless objects; they are living records of the Hanabishi Clan who once inhabited this land, their triumphs, struggles, and achievements etched into every stone and gem.

Nestled among the ancient jewelry, Keira's eyes fall upon a delicate hairpin. As she gently picks it up, memories rush back, and her heart brims with nostalgia. This very hairpin had once adorned her mother's long, flowing hair, a symbol of royalty within the Hanabishi family. Keira recalls herself as a small child, gazing in awe at her mother's radiant beauty and asking where she got such a beautifully crafted hairpin. The memory warms her heart, but it also tugs at her emotions, nearly bringing tears to her eyes. The hairpin, now severely damaged, seems to reflect the passing of time and the irreplaceable loss of her beloved mother.

A wave of emotions washes over her as she fondly remembers the stories her mother used to share about how she met her father, King Ryouske. Her mother's eyes would light as she recounted the tale of their enchanting encounter. Back when Ryouske was a young prince, he visited Sakura's humble village in search of fabric for his father. Destiny intervened that fateful day when he crossed paths with Sakura, who was tending the store. Captivated by her beauty and grace, the prince fell to one knee that very moment and asked her to be his queen. He then gifted the hairpin to her mother on the day of their wedding.

The story of her parents had always held a special place in Keira's heart, a reminder of the profound bond they shared and the legacy she carries as their daughter. The damaged hairpin becomes more than just a relic; it becomes a tangible connection to her mother's presence. She wishes she can see her mother’s face once more.

Flora, ever observant, notices Keira's emotions and gently asks, "you know, Mark found that hairpin the same day we found you. Was it yours?"

Keira shakes her head slowly, her voice soft as she replies, "No, it was my mother's. She told me that it was a gift from my father when they got married." A bittersweet smile graces her lips as she cradles the hairpin in her hand, feeling the weight of her heritage.

As Keira places the hairpin down and moves on, her eyes catch sight of something that fills her with both awe and nostalgia. There, displayed before her, is her father's legendary sword. The mere sight of it evokes a rush of memories, each one vivid and cherished. She can still picture her father with the sword resting at his side, a symbol of his strength and the honor he carried as a leader. He was a large and stout man, striking fear on those who dared challenge him in battle. But Keira knows that her father has a heart of gold, carrying nothing but kindness for the people he governs. Ryouske would often come to visit her, and in those moments, he would share tales of his victorious battles and the courage it took to defend their kingdom and his beloved family.

The sword itself is a masterpiece, its craftsmanship reflecting the skill and dedication of the Hanabishi blacksmiths. It gleams in the light, as if imbued with a spirit of its own. Keira's father always emphasized that the blade's purpose was not to conquer or oppress, but to protect and preserve the values they held dear.

Carter, recognizing the significance of the moment, gently asks, "you recognize that sword?"

Keira nods, her voice filled with a mixture of reverence and surprise, "yes. It belonged to my father. I can't believe he left it behind."

With a respectful gesture, Carter takes the sheath of the sword and guides Keira's attention to an intricate engraving on the sheath. The ancient text etched into the leather holds a profound meaning that resonates with Keira's lineage. With a sense of wonder, she carefully reads the words aloud, "He who wields this blade shall be known as King of the Hanabishi Clan."

The weight of those words sinks in, and Keira feels a deep connection to her heritage. Her father's sword is not just a symbol of power and authority; it represents a legacy of honor, valor, and leadership. The engraving reminds her that true strength lies not in domination, but in protecting the ones you care about and upholding the ideals that shape a noble ruler.

After Keira has perused the countless artifacts collected by Carter and Flora, her curiosity is piqued as they lead her to a table adorned with two maps. The stark contrast between them immediately catches her eye. One map illustrates the expansive territory once ruled by the Hanabishi Clan, a vast expanse of land that paints a vivid picture of the clan's former dominion. It's a landscape rich with history, where generations of her ancestors once thrived and prospered. The other map is modern, showing the new villages and where they are located compared to the old ones that were lost in time.

Carter's voice is filled with awe as he remarks, "It's fascinating how much land the Hanabishi family ruled. Flowerbud Village, Mineral Town, Sunny Island, Waffle Town, Forget-Me-Not Valley, and yes, even our great city; all of these locations once belonged to the Hanabishi kingdom. But all the ancient villages were destroyed, rebuilt, and renamed after the war by those wishing to live new lives."

Keira listens attentively, absorbing the weight of her family's legacy. The grandeur of the past stands in stark contrast to the present, where remnants of the Hanabishi Clan's once-mighty kingdom have now dispersed and transformed into the charming towns and villages of modern times.

With a gentle smile, Carter points to the eastern regions outside the borders of the former Hanabishi kingdom. "Our research says that once Castle Hanabishi fell, Ryouske, Sakura, and the residents of the castle traveled east to establish new villages. They made peace with the nomads and founded the small villages of Konohana, Tsukukusa, and Wagashi. Sadly, Ryouske and Sakura passed away before they could witness the completion of their rebuilding efforts. The descendants of the Hanabishi people still live in these villages to this day. However, they have lost touch with their roots and no longer remember their history."

Keira can't help but feel a sense of responsibility and connection to these distant villages and their inhabitants, her distant kin. She realizes that the loss of their heritage is something she wishes to help restore. With determination in her heart, she looks at Carter and Flora, understanding the significance of their research. "That's why Me and Flora are here," Carter continues, "to study and learn about the history of the Hanabishi people, to shed light on the past and help the descendants reconnect with their true heritage."

Carter then turns to Keira and says, “that’s why I brought you here. There are many artifacts that have your old language written on it. We have plenty of scholars working around the clock trying to translate them, but they still have a hard time with it. And so I will ask you, will you help us on our research? I can ask the research foundation for a grant to pay you for your help.”

Keira takes a moment to collect her thoughts before responding to Carter's request. The idea of delving into the artifacts and helping to decipher her old language both excites and overwhelms her. As she glances around the tent filled with artifacts of her old life, the weight of history presses upon her, and she realizes the significance of this undertaking. She knows that her decision will not only impact her but also contribute to the understanding of her people's heritage.

"Thank you, Lord Carter, for considering me for such an important task," Keira replies with sincerity. "I am honored by the opportunity, but I must discuss this with my husband, Mark, before making a final decision. I would not want to commit to something of this magnitude without his support."

Carter nods understandingly, appreciating Keira's thoughtfulness. "Of course, Keira. Take all the time you need. This is a significant task, and it's essential that you and Mark are on the same page."

With her heart aflutter with curiosity and determination, Keira returns home, eager to share her encounter with Carter and Flora with Mark. She finds him in the ranch, tending to the animals. As she approaches him, she asks him to come home to discuss something vitally important.

Back at the house, they sit on the dining room table. "Mark, I had a most intriguing encounter today at the dig site. Carter and Flora have invited me to assist them in their research. They have many artifacts containing my old language, and they are struggling to translate them. They are willing to pay me for my help."

"That's great news, Keira! Not only have you found a place in this world, but you might help people along the way."

“Are you sure you are okay with this? As your queen, my duty is to you and our home. I would hate to trouble you with my own selfish request.”

"Keira, you don't need to worry about troubling me. We might come from different worlds, but we’re sharing this life together. Your happiness and dreams are just as important as mine."

He pauses, choosing his words carefully, "I understand that being part of this research is important to you. If it helps you connect with your past and learn more about your family, I fully support you. Don’t worry about the roles of the past. You have the freedom to choose your own path, and I'm here to stand beside you, no matter where it leads."

With a deep breath, Keira responds, "Thank you, Mark. Your support means the world to me. I want to explore this part of my history, to understand where I come from and how it’ll shaped me from this point forward."

Once she receives Mark’s blessing, they return to Carter and Flora with Keira’s answer. "I would be honored to assist you in your research," Keira says, her voice steady with newfound resolve.

Carter's eyes light up with excitement, and Flora's face radiates gratitude. "Thank you, Keira, your knowledge of the ancient Hanabishi language will be invaluable to our research. With your help, we can uncover the mysteries of the Hanabishi Clan and piece together the history of this land."

Flora adds, "We truly appreciate your willingness to join us on this journey. Your perspective as the princess of the Hanabishi Clan will undoubtedly shed new light on our findings."

Keira smiles warmly, feeling a sense of fulfillment in her heart. Mark smiles as well, seeing Keira’s growth before his very eyes. It's a unique opportunity for her to explore her heritage and, at the same time, contribute to the understanding of the valley's history. She knows that this journey will not only enrich her life but also deepen her connection to the villagers who have warmly embraced her as one of their own.