PARTING WAYS WITH BERTHA: A JOURNEY BEGINS

As we strolled through the bustling market, Bertha and I chatted about our lives, our passions, and our dreams for the future. The conversations we shared felt like a tight bond being built between us.

When we passed a clothing store, Bertha’s eyes lit up and she grabbed my arm, pulling me inside. “Come on, Alivia, let’s get you something nice to wear!” she exclaimed.

I reluctantly stepped in, but Bertha’s enthusiasm was infectious – her energy was so vibrant that I couldn’t help but be drawn in. She scoured the racks of clothes and selected several billowy dresses for me to try on, and I was shocked at how perfect they looked on me. With grace and ease, Bertha helped me find the perfect outfit for my arrival in Silver Oak.

“Thank you, Bertha,” I said with a smile, “I couldn’t have done this without you.”

“Of course, my dear,” she said with a twinkle in her eye and a beaming smile on her lips, “that’s what friends are for.”

As we left the store and continued our journey, I felt a new sense of confidence and determination. Taking a deep breath and steeling myself, I glanced over at Bertha, who gave me an encouraging nod. I tightened my grip on my father’s journal, knowing that it held all the secrets to my success.

“This is only the beginning,” I said with a smile. “I’m going to make him proud.”

We began our journey to Silver Academy, and I was ready for whatever might come my way. The sun shone brightly, illuminating the path before us, and I felt my determination swell. We were setting off on an incredible adventure, and I knew I was ready to take it on.

We finally arrived at the university, and I dismounted from the carriage; it seemed to rise up towards the sky, like a beacon of hope for me. Bertha and I made our way inside and our footsteps echoed down the halls as we headed towards the administrative offices.

A warm smile greeted us from behind a desk as we entered. “Welcome to Silver Oak!” the registrar said cheerfully. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride as I signed my name to the registration forms, officially becoming a student at the school. “Your room number is 24A,” the registrar said in a gentle voice.

“This will be a perfect place for you,” Bertha said cheerily as she opened the door to my room. We both stepped in and surveyed the small, cosy space with a window overlooking the hustle and bustle of the city below.

“I’m so scared Bertha,” I whispered, hugging my father’s journal to my chest. “What if I can’t do this on my own?”

Bertha smiled in response, her eyes twinkling with reassurance. “You can do anything, my girl. You are strong and you have your father’s journal to guide you.”

She took my hand, and we started unpacking my belongings and making my bed. I wanted the room to feel as close to home as possible. But when it came time to part ways, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness. Bertha had been with me every step of the way, and now, I would have to face this new challenge alone.

As we finished settling in, Bertha and I hugged each other tightly. As we embraced, our tears mixed together, and Bertha’s face was wet with sadness. She pulled away, her eyes glistening.

Well, Alivia, it is time for me to go.” Bertha said softly.

My chest tightens and my eyes brim with tears. “Already?” I asked, not wanting to let her go.

“I know, it’s hard to say goodbye, but I have a long journey ahead of me.” She said, her voice thick with emotion.

“I’m going to miss you so much. You’ve helped me so much” I said, my voice cracking as I tried to hold back the tears.

“I’ll never forget all the memories we’ve made on this journey together, the most excitement I’ve had in a while.” She said with a faint smile.

“I promise to write to you often and to keep you updated on everything happening here,” I said.

“And I will do the same. Stay out of trouble and I hope you accomplish everything you need to” she

she said, her gaze never leaving mine as she spoke.

We hugged once more, and she whispered in my ear “Stay safe. Who knows, maybe our paths will cross again someday.”

I felt a wave of sadness wash over me and whispered back “I hope so. Until then, stay safe.”

“I will. And you take care of yourself too. Goodbye, Alivia.” She said with her eyes twinkling with hope.

“Goodbye, Bertha,” I said as she waved one last time before she headed out of the door.

As I settled into my room, my gaze was immediately drawn to my father’s journal perched on the corner of the desk. With trembling fingers, I quickly ran my hand along my father’s journal, feeling a chill as I opened it up and read. His handwriting was neat, and there were dozens of scribbled figures and diagrams alongside beautiful sketches of animals and plants. I paused for a moment to take in his notes and sketches, knowing that they held the same fear and anticipation that I felt as I prepared to start this new journey.

The next morning, I set out to explore Silver Oak, eager to see all that it had to offer. With a spring in my step, I wandered down through the streets, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city. I was in awe of what I saw. The cobblestone paths meandered through the town, passing brightly coloured buildings adorned with ivy and flowers. Everywhere I looked, there were galleries, studios, and artworks in every medium ranging from metal sculptures to delicate ink paintings. I spoke with artists and admired their unique styles and techniques, feeling more inspired with every step. I couldn’t believe that in just a few days, I would be starting classes at Silver Academy.