Lyrelle's face sharpened, before forcing a smile.

"Yes, I have to. There has to be something there. My Father may have been a little chaotic with his ideas and opinions, but he wasn't a fool. Somehow, he learned of something beyond our little world". Her fists tightened as she looked down. "Even more so.. I want to find out what happened to him".

"But.. but do you even know where to start? There's not a direct way toward the mountains, not one recorded. How would you even know where to begin?" Ruka asked.

Lyrelle was stunned into silence. She didn't immediately have an answer, no matter how hard she thought. Her eyes drifted ahead, the soft glow from the village plaza spilling between the columns.

"I don't" she said finally. Ruka blinked at her.

"You.. don't?"

Lyrelle shook her head.

"No". Lyrelle gave a small laugh, though there was little humor in her words.

"I suppose I should have thought of that part before announcing my determination to leave for the mountain. But I'm sure I'll be just fine" Lyrelle laughed again, trying to cover up her embarrassment.

Ruka's lips twitched.

"You really didn't think this through, did you?"

"Not particularly, no".

"Lye.."

"But I had the important part figured out"

"What important part?"

"That I was going, of course. Silly Ruru" Lyrelle laughed awkwardly. Her ears beaming red, embarrassment now on full display.

Ruka didn't say anything for a moment. Only staring in disbelief at her friend. She suddenly smiled, putting her hand to her cheek.

"You really are impossible" Ruka laughed.

"That's what everyone tells me" Lyrelle replied rolling her eyes. Her face glowing red, embarrassment on full display. 🌸