Amber Flamehart's Arc

Chapter 3 of 4

Amber stood at her workbench and unrolled a map across the wood. The parchment showed the entire Frostpeak Plateau, with peaks and valleys marked in faded ink. She traced her finger along the ridges. Each area might hold different plants. The northern slopes stayed in shadow most of the day, perfect for cold-loving herbs. The southern faces caught more sun and grew hardier specimens. She needed to visit them all. She rolled up the map and tucked it into her satchel. The village below the plateau would have what she needed next. Information. Stories. Knowledge from people who'd lived here their whole lives. Amber pulled on her fur cloak and stepped outside. The path down was steep but well-packed. Twenty minutes later, she pushed through the door of a warm timber lodge. Steam rose from mugs on wooden tables. People sat close to the hearth, talking in low voices. A figure near the window caught her eye. It shimmered like ice in sunlight. The fae's frost-covered wings reflected the firelight as it sipped from a delicate cup. Amber approached and asked about the high peaks. The fae smiled and spoke of winds, hidden valleys, and flowers that only bloomed under moonlight. Outside again, Amber followed a narrow trail to the edge of town. A small wooden shelter stood among the pines, its roof thick with snow. Bronze plaques covered the walls inside, each one carved with names and plant sketches. She read about herbalists who'd climbed higher than anyone before them. One had found a moss that stopped frostbite. Another discovered roots that cured mountain fever. Their work had saved lives. Amber traced her fingers over the engravings. These people had done what she wanted to do. They proved it was possible. On her way back, she spotted a tall stone pillar beside the trail. Amber symbols spiraled up its surface, and frost-resistant markings lined the base. Someone had placed it here to guide travelers. She studied the symbols and realized they pointed toward her mushroom workshop. Word was spreading about her work. People would come looking for her remedies soon. She wasn't a master yet, but she was on the path. The plateau held the plants. The village held the knowledge. And she had the will to bring them together.