RP:Proving Ones Self, With a Gift for the King
Elegant Bridge
A large, wild and gushing river separates the lands of Larket and Kelay-Sage but luckily a long and elegant bridge formed of sweeping arches crafted carefully of brick and stone links the two lands together. On the north side are a pair of Larket Knights in armor and on the southern a pair of Elven Rangers, neither side appear to be bothered by the other but it would appear recent events have led to the stone bridge now being guarded round the clock. The southern side of the bridge is bright with verdant growth; the beginnings of Sage Forest. On the northern side, however, is a bustling city of stone.
Mythayus stood at parade rest waiting on his men, and the tradesmen and workers to show. He patiently waited. He Black armor, gleaming like the night sky. His long black hair pulled back in a tight neat que. A tattered kite shield rest on his right arm and a bastard sword rested on his right hip. A large Black horse pawed the ground behind him, ready to go. His royal blue eyes surveyed all the people arriving. If he was nervious it wasnt showing. He'd wait for everyone to arrive to start his Announcements, and briefing.
Linken sat perched upon one of the many trees south of the bridge as he awaited the arrival of his company. It was a quiet morning, one he sought to enjoy thoroughly before his long journey as he bit away piece after piece of a ripe apple. Leg dangling beneath him as he watched the bridge, his eyes caught sight of his friend, accompanied by the caravan, to which he tossed the pit aside and heaved himself from the branches, striking the ground with a less than elegant thud, his own armor and equipment clancking briefly from the impact, and with every swift movement that followed. He approached, garbed in a green cloak, underneath of which he bore his own armor: Black as the nigght, with vague hints of blue glimmering off his plate, of which was light and strategically placed over his many vital spots, and bound together by straps of leather and mail. The rustic appearance of his armor gave away it's age, though the elf bore it with no less pride than he would have many years ago: His shield and blade, sheathed upon his back, bow and quiver slung over his right shoulder, satchel upon his left, and an assortment of knives, daggers, and kunai lining the many sockets of his straps and belts. Quite a heavy burden, though one he was attuned to carrying, and must be once again if he is to see his duty through. Approaching the company with a smile, he reached into his satchel, withdrawing another ripe red fruit, and sending it towards Mythayus with a calculated underhanded toss. "Fine morning we have, is it not?"
Mythayus caught the apple with a smile, "Every morning, is a fine morning my friend. Are you ready for todays journey?" He looked the elf up and down, he knew his friend was ready. He once again surveyed the caravan. He was quickly counting making sure everyone and thing was there before they'd start. He nodded confirming to himself that everyone was in fact there. He looked to his friend, "I think you need to work on your landing." He mounted the Large black horse. "Alright, Ladies and gentleman, We're going to be heading out momentarily." His voice loud and full of authority, " First off,Ground rules, Everyone stay together as best you can, so that the knights, rangers and myself can keep you safe. If your having trouble, please done hestiate to let the knight, rangers, or myself know, so that we can fix or provide aid to the situation. If you spot something dangerous let us know, we all want to be safe and make it to out in one piece. We will be traveling through the north-western part of the sage forest, Followed by traveling through Xalious, Lastly through the caves, We need to be careful and alert. Once again if you see something you believe to be dangerous let us know, we're here to keep you safe, and if we all work together we should succeed." He pause for a moment to take a breath. "Now are there any questions before we head out?"
Linken nodded as Mythayus spoke of the rules for the journey ahead of them, his ears absorbing every word spoken by his commanding voice. When the opportunity arose for questions, however, the elf's hand rose sharply into the air to signal the attention of his friend and company. "Yes, but only one." His cerulean hues scanned over the caravan with an observant gaze, a soft chuckle escaping under his breath as he admitted to his only folly this morning. "...Has no one a steed to spare this elf?"
Mythayus laughed, "I figured someone would need a horse." He gave a sharp whistle, and dismount his horse, holding out the reins to his friend. "Here you go." Shortly after a white large horse trots into view. It was fully saddled and troted straight to the knight. "Thank you,Ari. Now go home." He took the reins and mount the white stallion. "Alright is there anything else before we leave." He turned his horse to get ready to leave.
Linken laughed and gratefully accepted the reigns from Mythayus, taking a moment to run his hand along the fine steed's neck, eventually gripping the mane and swinging his form up and onto the satle, causing the beast to stir briefly, tapping its hooves against the cobblestone and issuing a quick snort. With a relieved sigh, the elf smiled and bowed his head to his friend. "I am grateful, and prepared. Onward then?"
Mythayus turns one final time to face everyone once more, calling out to the knight to spread themselves out around the convoy and for the rangers to mix themselves in. He then turns once more smiling to his friend. "Alright, lets get the going!"
Linken smiled at the execution of his command, lightly tossing the reigns as his black steed picked up a steady trot, following alongside his warrior companion as their journey began.
Knee high stone wall
Piled one atop the other, rounded stones slither onward in a straight line, barely knee-high at this point. North, past the unworthy blockade, a cloud of sooty black smoke rises into the air, sure signs of civilization. Grass stalks grow as tall as the wall here, surrounded by its even taller kin, thick-trunked and leafy green atop. These trees stay to the sides of a thin path, well kept, considering its rural habitation.
Mythayus entered the area at a moderate pace not to fast or slow. He want to keep a steady pace. He'd rely on his rangers, to call out if they saw any thing, "Follow the path to the west." He called. Their didnt seem to be anything dangerous in the area.
Linken followed suite, his watchful gaze soaking in the lush greenery around him, feeling a sense of appreciation at their well kept status as a brief grin escaped him. Pulling his reigns to the right, he would cast one final glance back at the caravan behind before continuing onward.
Northern Sage Forest
Sounds of the primeval echo off the lumbering weald, enveloping you in a cocoon of exotic wild. The pesting buzz and tiny croaks of the hunter and its prey reach out to the ferocity within, sparking a longing to join in the chase. Resisting the urge, you take in the lush landscape a bit longer. To the south, the forest darkens, but a glint of pulsing light catches the eye. The way north is barred by underbrush too thick to transverse, but opens slightly both east and west.
Mythayus continued at his current pace. Continuing to scan the trees. Once again he'd rely on the keen eyes of his rangers. Myth kept his gaze moving keeping, "We'll continue west."
Linken reveled in the natural beauty of the forest and the songs of all the various forms of life coexisting, briefly forgetting his physical burden as he brought his horse up and alongside Mythayus. "My home, in all of its glory. Such a sight to behold..."
Northern Sage Forest
Ample space is provided between trunks, as the trees have not been rooted too densely together. Rich soil is to acknowledge for the lofty timber. Leaves spread out upon their boughs, fanned outwards in all directions, out to greet the touch of nature in outstretched veins. The roots go deep, burrowing down beneath the earth. Some protrude near the base of the trunk, looping awkwardly so as to form a small, yet comfortable seeming crevice - at least for any animal needing warm, inviting shelter.
Mythayus smiled to his friend, "It is truly beautiful. That's why i figured we'd take this way. The peace of the forest." He closed his eyes for moment taking a deep breath. He would once more do an alert survey, of the area and the caravans. "I've always loved forest, not nearly as much as i love lakes," He smiled, before turning his head towards the caravans, "We'll continues West." He side glance at Linken and smiled happy that, he was making the trek with him.
Linken chuckled ad his attention was briefly diverted by the black bird soaring through the trees overhead, before reaching down to pat the noble creature that so willingly carried his weight upon this journey. "Aye, we have no lakes, yet our waters be just as serene. I am fotunate to be but a glade's distance from the enchanted spring at the heart of southern sage, a point of interest I take upon myself to visit regularly." He saw Myth's smile, and returned one of his own, greatful merely at the opportunity to help the innocents behind him on their long trek through the mountains.
Northern Sage Forest
Groping branches reach out across the pathway, leading both east and west. The view is clear, one could see extremely far ahead or behind, if they had wanted to. The dirt beneath is hard packed, and lined by heavy logs. Outside of these the forest becomes more rugged, and much more difficult to circumnavigate. It would be advisable to stay upon the set path, though anyone with guts could expose themselves to the mystical intrigue of the deeper eaves.
Mythayus does another quick scan of the area and looks back to the caravan making sure it was still okay. Myth let out a sigh, relaxing a bit, It had been so long at least 100 years since he lead or commanded anything. He looks to his friend as the continued down the beaten path. "I've been to the spring several times, I relax there all the time." He didnt fill the need to call out which they were going seeing as how the path only lead one way."Keep to the Path, dont want anyone to get hurt."
Linken tugged on his reigns a bit, allowing his horse to fall behind Mythsyus' in a single file as to avoid any collision down this narrow stretch of dirt road. "Ah, well, the next time you find yourself at the spring, give a shout. I would surely hear you from my home, and be glad to accompany you." The elf felt the tension of the endeavor himself, also not having involved himself with anything following a chain of command for many, many years. "Hmm... You seem the type who thoroughly enjoys fishing," he said with a jestful smirk.
Outskirts of Sage Forest
Your journey through Sage Forest ends and begins here as the thickening wildwood prevents any further travel north. A cool breeze rolls down from the mountains to the west, carrying with it just a hint of rainfall and maybe something else you can't quite fathom. The overhang of leaves rustles gently, quivering in anticipation as the wind wafts by on its course for the tiny town hidden somewhere below. You can follow it either south or east.
Mythayus gave laugh, "I do, i enjoy fishing. I..." His sentence was cut of by his giving a startled rear as crow flew out from the lower branched of a tree, in front of the beast. Myth stayed calm an planted in his saddle. "Woah, easy there, It's just a bird." He spoke soothingly to the beast, and gently stroked the side of it's neck. "We'll follow the path South."
Linken laughed to himself as his horse snorted, trotting backwards a few paces in response to the actions of Myth's steed. "Ahah, but not a fan of bird watching, if I am to base my assumption off the reaction of your horse, friend." Pulling his reigns to the left, his horse gave another snort as it trotted around the bend.
The Sage Forest Bell
The dense canopy of the forest cover parts here, allowing the sunlight to stream down and bring a subtle warmth to your face. Rising up from amidst the spinney of thistle ahead, a tower of whitened Sagewood ash catches your attention. Intricate notches are cut into the once living pillars that form the base, creating rungs to reach the platform high atop. Hanging mystically just beyond reach is a bell of gleaming silver, long dormant as its purpose has become shrouded in time.
Mythayus laughed, "Apparently not." He gave the horse another pat, to reassure it. He snorted at him. "We'll be entering the mountains soon." He spoke to his friend. Looking back to check on the caravan. Nodding to himself. "We'll keep following the path."
Linken caught Mythayus' instruction, though his gaze had been drawn to the ancient bell that they passed, his head arching back and to the side as he watched the towering construction.
Near the Pass
Conditions here are rather difficult to handle. There is no trodden path, and also no clear visibility. The ground shifts, rising and falling in different areas, both north and southward. Thin, spidery trees stretch up as tall as they can, fighting for life in this harsh part of the forest.
Mythayus gave a light laugh watching his friend marvel at the beautiful bell. Many of the people in the caravan had also marveled at it. He smiled to himself thinking about all the nights him and Peku had spent staring up at the bell. Seeing no beaten trail, He called, "We'll continue sou..." Just then a bolt coming from the west struck the knight in his right shoulder in between his breast plate and his pauldrons. Mythayus jerked on the reigns causing his horse to rear and whinny. Heto stay in his saddle but only just. Several more arrows and bolts flew out from the west, east, and south. "Bandits!" Myth called, Alerting the Knights and rangers. Five men would walk out from each of the three directions. Two wielding either a crossbow or a shortbow. The others wielded some sort of various melee weapon. The center man in the group from the west distinctly had a heavy crossbow and was clearly the one who shot Myth. For the other was wielding a short bow.
Linken smiled as he turned his gaze back to his friend, only to fade as his sensitive ears flicker in response to the sound of objects whistling through the air. His eyes widened with shock as the bolt pierced Mythayus' armor, the fears held deep within him welling out through his cerulean hues, all color draining on his features as he called out to his friend. "Mythayus!" His head jerked towards the direction the bolt came from, only to find a fresh volly soaring their way, followed by a troup of foot soldiers. With only a fraction of a moment to spare he jerked and flailed his shoulder behind him, barely missing an arrow aimed for his person, and in a swift moment of hesitation he reared his horse to the side, grasping the mane of the horse and sliding down to its side with his legs bear hugging the saddle, intent on using the poor creature as a shield whilst he prepared to engage the onslaught. "Forgive me," he spoke in regards to the creature as he drew his bow and a bundle of arrows from his shoulder, three clenched between his knuckles and one behind his thumb. Time seemed to momentarily come to a halt as he collected himself, his soul having much more trouble accepting the situation than his mind: This was the moment he had dreaded would come, after so many years of staying his blade. He would kill again. His digits opened and closed as they tensed around his bow, drawing the volley of three shots simultaneously as he mentally prepared to choose his targets: The other archers, the one with the crossbow, were obviously the biggest threat. His evaluation was cut short, however, as two or more of the arrows struck the steed dead center of mass, causing it to buck and sway before toppling to its side in the direction of it's executioners. The moment was here, there would be no turning back. His expression morphed from one of frantic mental preparation to one of cold anger as he unleashed his emotions in a bellowing howl, leaping off of the collapsing creature with the grace of a true elven warrior, unleashing the volley of arrows as he soared forth, an eagle unto his prey.
Mythayus snapped the bolt in his right before raising his right arm with a wince to hold up his shield. To avoid being hit by any more bolts or arrows. "Rangers, return fire. Protect the caravans!" Drawing his sword with his left hand gave his horse a swift kick charging the group to the south, His sword cracked with electricity, as sparks danced across the blade. The rangers started to fire their retaliation volley, as the knight rushed to defend the caravan. Half going to fight the group to the east since no one was handling that side. a forth going to the west seeing as how that was were Linken was focused, the last of the Knights going to the south, to help out Myth. The bandits Quickly fired more arrows and bolts. The melee wielding bandits, started to charge the caravan. Letting a mighty roars trying to scare the knights and rangers to no success. The knights and rangers remained composed. The badit who had shot Myth called out. "Take no Prisoners and show no mercy." The three Melee foot soldiers bandits, on the west side, charged the elf weapon drawn.
Linken 's arrows struck the crowd with mostly success, two of the volly striking both an archer in the chest and one of the approaching warriors in his arm, though the third was avoided by the bandit leader. The elf returned to the earth with as much momentum it would take to send him into a barrel roll, recovering from his tumble with his spare arrow already drawn. Releasing the shot over the crowd, aimed one again at the bandit's leader, the elf dropped his bow and quiver grom his grasp, reaching up and angrily ripping the brooch from his cloak, his ancient assassin armor, as rustic as it may be, glimmering in the beams of light breaking through the foliage above. Before his cloak touched the earth, sword and shield were already drawn as he charged the oncoming trio with the ferocity of a wild beast. Whirling his blade in a wide arc, the elf's steel clashed with that of the front runners with enough momentum to send the poor fool staggering off balance, just long enough for Linken to greet his face with the edge of his shield. "No prisoners, then!?" he roared, his first victim tumbling to his rear with blood spouting from his nose as the elf moved to the next. His sword whistled as it was drawn in a wide arc over his head, splintering into the wooden club of the second barbarian. This left him open, however, as the bandit struck by his arrow approached from the side, delivering a swift uppercut to his stomach followed by a jab to his cheekbone. The hits sent the elf whipping to his side, releasing his grip upon his sword and raising his shield arm in defense. The bandit leader, still having dodged his arrow, had already aimed his crossbow towards the elf, sending a wooden bolt his way with such force that it would scrape against his prosthetic limb's unnatural steel, piercing completely throug his shield and ripping the object out and far away from his grasp. While one dislodged the elf's blade from his club and tossed it to the side, the bandit struck by his shield had recovered, approaching him from behind with his blade high above his head. Barely having a moment to evaluate the situation, Linken scooped his hand into the pouch on his belt, scattering an array of caltrops and sharp objects alon the ground at his side. Turning to face the assailant above him, he rolled to his side and drove his leg into the bandit's thigh, sending him toppling forward, and face first into the dozens of balls of spikes before him. Screaming in agony, the marauder pressed his hands into the blade littered dirt, only injuring himself further as he writhed about in an attempt to crawl to safety. Linken drew one of the daggers from his belt, raising it into the air and bringing it down upon the man's spine with a wretched scream, twisting it to either side as he chopped his way up the man's torso. His gaze, seeing only red at this point, turned to face the other two assailants, a frenzied look upon his face as he tried to strike fear into his soon-to-be victim's hearts. "No mercy it is then!!"
Mythayus let out an inhuman roar as he drew his sword with his left hand, it cracked with electricity, as sparks dance across the the blade. The adrenaline from the fight had numbed the man's wounded shoulder. He threw his shield cloved right arm out, bashing a bandit in the head. The sound of bones cracking and snapping echoed though the forest, as myth tapped into his dragonic strength.It was unclear in the bandit was alive or dead as it lay motionless on the ground. At the same time he lowered and held out his blade parallel with the ground. Using the force of his charging horse cut the man clean in half. The body shook violently as the electrical current the ran through the sword entered the now lifeless body The knights to the east had made quick work of the archers, working as a unit, rather than trying to take on every one at once .They were making their way to thier next victim. The knight to the west made thier job to keep the remaining bandit away, from Linken. So he could have the time to aim and finish off his current victim. The knight to the south, Paused for a moment not a expect such a sound to come out of a human, but the bandits were also stunned. The knights took this to their advantage taking out the two achers but not before took a hidden dagger to the left side. The Rangers from the position inside the caravan took aim at the remaining bandits and fired. All hit thier marks except the one aimed for the bandit leader who move to the right, just enough to not get hit directly in the heart by the arrow, instead it grazed, his left shoulder.
Linken ducked his head as the volly of arrows flew over him, strikining the bandit that linken shot earlier in his leg, causing him to drop his weapon and clench the arrow in pain, while the other, armed with a sword, was struck in his abdomen and chest, the force of the blows causing him to stumble backwards aghast. He siezed this opportunity by rushing forward, swiftly closing the distance between him and the armed one. His steel hand drawn back with fingers extended, he thrusted the appendage forward like a spear, his cold digits sinking into the man's throat and completely crushing his windpipe. Gasping and gurgling, his sword fell from his hands as they raised to grasp his throat, though before it's steel could strike the earth it was already within the elf's posession as he marched toward the other wounded assailant, leaving the choking one to the whim of the reinforcements behind him. The remaining bandit whimpered with pain and fear, raising his wounded forearm to shield himself fro Linken's wrath. And indeed his wrath was terrible, whirling his blade around his head and from the side, cleaving the bandit's forearm completely off and batting it away. He screeched as blood began pulsing from the wound, some of this red mist spattering across the elf's face with naught but the coldest of glares in response. Releasing the blade from his grasp, Linken lunged forward and grabbed the man by his throat, his prosthetic limb slowly squeezing the life out of him as he grasped the arrow he planted in his shoulder earlier, twisting and bending it as if he derived some sort of twisted pleasure in torturing his victim. He snarled as the man screamed through his choking grasp, pulling him closer as he shouted, "Do you see what you've brought upon yourselves!?" before ripping the arrow from his arm, shoving the pointed projectile directly into the man's jugular. He tossed his near lifeless body to the side, and in his bloodlust finally set his gaze upon the bandit leader, drawing his second dagger as he stepped over the carnage he created, and slowly making his way towards the most deserving of his punishment. "You...You are mine!!"
Mythayus ¬¬ With the bandits from the east and the south dead. Myth saw no opponent except the leader. He saw his making his way to the terrified leader. The bandit leader stood frozen in fear. He could believe this simple group, couldve have beat his band so easily. Myth gave his horse a swift kick and got inbetween the elf and the leader, Myth points his sword at the Leader, Myth smiled, twitching his wrist jsut enough to get one of the dancing sparks to arc and send a paralyzing jolt of electricity to course through the man. Causing him to hit the ground like a sack of potatoes. Myth looked around Sheathing his sword, and dismounting. "Tie up those still breathing, Collect any viable arrows and take a rest. We wont stay long just enough to get our second wind. Good job everyone, Thats what i call teamwork." The knight did as they were order, and tended to those injured. Myth was please to discover no one in the caravan was hurt.
Linken growled as his friend intervened, paralyzing the bandit's leader and ordering he be restrained. Furious at the order, he dropped to the ground and straddled the criminal who stared helplessly back up at him, snarling as he pressed the dagger to his throat. "I should spill your blood where you lie..." He was so eager to end this man's life that his hand began to tremble, the adrenaline of combat finally ending its course through his veins as his former coherence grew once again in his mind. Outraged and grief stricken, his scream echoed like a banshee as he raised the dagger into the air, thrusting the blade deep into the earth beside the man's head. His cold hands gripping him by the collar, he jostled the bandit as he roared in his face, "You are fortunate that he is a far better man than I!" Before balling his fist, bringing his fist down and across his face backed with enough force to knock the bandit clean out. Rising to his feet, he spat upon the earth as he glared down at the fool who dared cross he and his company. "...But I seem to be out of rope.." Turning, he would walk aimlessly passed the many other knights and rangers to where his sword lie, lowering himself to a knee to pick up the crimson stained blade. His hand tensed and clamped down on the tool of death, a trembling sigh escaping his breath as he rose slowly to his feet, leaving all equipment behind as he walked aimlessly down the path.
Mythayus let out a sigh. The pain slowly returning to his wounded shoulder. He made sure that the wounded knights were getting there wounds checked out. He walk over to the now dead black steed. Reaching into the saddle bags pulled out some rope and tied the bandit leader up. He waited roughly 10 minutes before standing. The shooting pain his right shoulder was almost unbareable. He gritted his teeth. "Alright, Lets pack up the baggage motioning to the tied bandits and get going."
Linken came to a sudden halt, taking a moment to collect himself. His blade was thrust into the earth before bringing his hand to his face, only to find his vsage spattered with thick blood. He grimaced, wiping the mess from his face and flicking it from his hand as he ran the other over the back of his head. To the other knights, this was a victory, but to the elf, this act was one step forward down a path he'd done everything he could to avoid. It was a living night mare that left him trembling in its wake, before he swiftly made his way back to the battlefield. He stopped where his bow and quiver lie, kneeling down and retrieving them with a sigh, before turning once more and heading down the path, retrieving his sword from the ground as he passed by.
Mythayus look at the stirrup, then to the saddle. he let out a sigh. He forced himself up using his left hand only. He surveyed everything seeing how the caravan, fairing. he smiled at them being ready to go. "alright the move out." He stops as he get to his friend and holds out his left hand to pull him onto the formorly white stallion.
Linken said not a word to the man, holding his hand up as to decline his offer, while raising his blade in the air and slicing it downward. The excess blood spattered against the soil, his blade returned to it's sheath upon his back as he marched on.
Near the Pass
Skillful hikers could easily run in and out this narrowing and reopening pathway. The shifting balance of the road is continually lined with bleached stones, heading in many different directions, though most seem to end in thick, brambled forest. Leaves swirl about in torrents of winds, which rise and lower in succession, a strange occurrence of this forest; simply another to add to the growing list.
Mythayus sighed and continued on south. He was concerned about his friend. He looked down with sorrow. But back up sighing focusing on the task at hand. "We continue South."
Linken could not find it in himself to face another at this moment, desperately trying to salvage his thoughts and emotions and compress them into some thing coherent, something he could comprehend. He would just continue to walk silently, intent on delivering the caravan to it's destination without further bloodshed.
The Pass through Xalious
Dwarven craft is in this road, as it is well leveled, and smoothly done. The top layer is dirt, but beneath is an obvious layer of stone. Dwarven stoneworkers, being very good road builders, set this to keep rain from washing away the top layer and to also keep carriages from sinking into muddy ruts. It is a fine portrayal of ancient craftmanship.
Mythayus Let out sigh, this was gonna be a long trip if he couldnt figure out a way to cheer up his friend. Though it was hard to think with the pain in his right should, "Well continue west"
Linken 's footsteps ceased for a moment, his hand raising to press against his right cheek, which had begun to bruise. Thinking to himself, 'That fool really knocked the hell out of me,' he unlatched the buckles on his right gauntlet, tugging at it's fingertips until the glove was removed. The elf pressed his steel palm against his face, the cool metal bringing a sense of temporary relief to his jaw as he picked up his stride once more.
Mountain Path
As the path begins to wind up into the Xalious Ranges, you're treated to a wondrous view of the mountains which surround you. Tall, majestic and timeless; they seem to challenge the very skies with their might. The air is colder here than further east, as the elevation increases, and those who still breathe would notice their breath is fast becoming visible. Steep cliffs and high mountains make travelling north and south impossible, the only path available is to continue west further into the mountains, or travel to Kelay by heading east. The remnants of a carriage service remains as a reminder of this violent world's savagery... their once thriving business reduced to rubble by bandits, highwaymen and the evils which reside in this land.
Mythayus finally dropped his right arm, the pain in it to much to hold his shield up. He surveyed the area deciding to not let his mind wander. "We'll continue West."
Linken cocked his head to the side with a wince, a rew rapid pops resounding from his neck as he worked the kinks out of his body. When Mythayus' arm gave, however, the elf would turn to face him, his concern still managing to claw it's way out through the emotional turmoil inside him. Latching his gauntlet back onto his arm, he would approach his friend and steed, raising his arms underneath his shield and pushing up, as to support him. "Let me carry it for you..."
Mountain Path
Carrying on through the mountains, the path you're on heads down from both sides as it briefly winds through a small valley. Even so, the view is still spectacular: High mountains to the north and south, and to the east the beautiful Sage Forest, broken only by the buildings which make up the various cities nestled within it. The road is very well worn, as it is the main trade-route between the cities of the east and kingdoms of the west. To the north is a small shrine, and there are a few devout priests praying inside. It's unclear from here which God they pray to, but the doors to the shrine are always opened and seem welcoming to any weary travelers as a place of rest. Heading west will lead you further into the Xalious Ranges, and the eastern path leads down towards Sage Forest and the various cities which reside there.
Mythayus laughs, "Very well, be careful with it, it's over 200 years old." He releases the shield from his arm using his left hand. He looks around. " We'll continue west."
Linken took the shield into his hands, a forced smirk pushed out of his tired features. "You don't say..." His gaze fell to the armor he wore, a relic all his own, the patches of rust staining its edges and surface left by the unwashed blood of battles long since waged. He sighed deeply, for in this moment he felt his true age set upon him, feeling as nothing more than a withered and tired old man.
Rough Range
How could this be, is what you think to yourself as you look around. Imprinted into the ground, it looks almost as if a rain-sized meteor shower hit this particular part of the hills, leaving it scarred and rocky. A road of sorts runs through this area and to the south, but is still pitted and must be hard on the many travelers that come through this region. Pieces of wagons and even some horseshoes suggest that hitting larger potholes could be costly to merchants and wagontrains that come through here seeking trade with the dwarfs and mages to the west. To the south, it looks exactly the same as here, rough and harsh on the body. To the east a downsloping mountain path leads, cutting a road through the foothills of this land and to the north is a steep cliff.
Mythayus offered his friend a smile. "Ahhh, whats wrong?" He lookat the surroundings, "Alright the pthat is gonna start to narrow from her everyone single file. We going to follow the south trail." He looks down to his friend, "You sure you dont want to ride?"
Linken slowly nodded his head, slipping the ancient shield over his right arm. The limb was prosthetic, after all, so the burden would be slim to none. "Aye, I am sure, friend." With a sigh, he would hesitantly cast his gaze up to his friend, sorrow welling in his cerulean hues. "...I am just...troubled, by what has come to pass, is all.."
Cave
As you look around, you must squint your eyes to depict anything about this place. As you glide your hands across the cave walls, you notice that it is very damp, and can also hear water dripping onto the floor. There seems to be some glittering mineral in the wall. This would be a great place to mine. However, the area here looks as if it is not as rich in minerals as the continuation of the cave, which must have been recently excavated. The walls here still have a fresh dusting of some minerals on them however, it doesn't look to be as valuable as the shimmering from the north. There must be some kind of light coming from a small hole in the middle of that area. There is a sign here that says 'Warning. Rockslides may occur while mining, do so at your own risk.' Further north is the rest of the cave, and you believe the warning would hold true for the rest of the cave as well. To the west is a path that leads to a kingdom of sorts, probably the Kingdom of the Dwarves.
Mythayus gives his friend a comforting smile, "I'm sorry, my friend we shall have to get a stiff drink when we return. " He gives the elf a wink. "well here the hard part getting them through this cave. We'll head west. This is going tobe dark, it you have a lantern or torch light it now. Also were gonna stay single file, stay close to one another."
Linken followed closely on foot behind Mythayus' steed, reaching up to wipe the bloody sweat of his brow upon his sleeve. The thought of a stiff drink was tempting, but he knew there would not be enough drink in the world to drown his troubles. "...More than one, friend. More than one..,"
East Road
Although this whole road is carved straight out of the mountain, you look around and are amazed and astounded at the degree of craftsmanship here. Even the road, after centuries of wear and tear, is still in almost mint condition. The only thing that lets on that this place is old, is the wooden beams that stand overhead, but a few dwarfs work to take down and put up brand new ones, and soon this place will look new again. Lanterns with the ever-rare glowing stone illuminate your way. The stones where probably found while this underground abode was dug out from the mountain, maybe as a mineshaft in the very beginning. The road continues to your east and west, while to your north you see the entrance to a house, and to your south there stands a sturdy and official looking building.
Mythayus gave a laugh, "Yeah, i hear ya, i think frostmaw, and get some tears. Strongest brew i'm had so far." He lets go of the reigns for a moment air rubbing his wounded shoulder. he knew if he touched it it would only hurt more."We'll continue west."
Linken saw the way Mythayus tended his arm, deciding to address it as he caught up, placing his free hand against the side of his steed. "Are you alright, friend? How bad is the wound?.."
Mine Road
This road, clearly once just a large tunnel, continues to your west. It seems to have been converted into a street fairly recently, and the stones and bricks look fairly new, probably within the last few years. People walk along the street, and a large wagon loaded with barrels is right here. It stands right outside of the building to your north with the sign, 'Four Axes Brewery'. Indeed it must be, for the aromatic smell that comes from the building is that of fine beer, dwarven beer, and the best in all of the land. Maybe they would be willing to give someone like yourself a taste of the wonderful brew for free?
Mythayus winced, "The bolt is still in there. I broke the end off while we were fighting." He stopped the caravan for a moment. "Everyone take five. Then we'll continue." He looked to his friend with a smile.
Linken urged his friend to descend from his steed, intent on assisting. "Come down, now. Let's have a look."
Mythayus dismounts, after all he did say take five. It was also a good thing he was left handed. "There," He points at were the bolt had entered.
Linken carefully peeled back the pauldron on the shoulder Mythayus designated, wincing upon sight of the splintered bolt portruding from his flesh. Shaking his head in that 'this-won't-feel-wonderful' sort of way, he gripped the pauldron tightly, wrapping his steel digits around the shattered projectile. "Ready?"'
Mythayus closed his eyes and prepared himself for the pain that was about to insue, "as i'll ever be. Once this is done i' beleive the five minutes is would you mind getting them going while i get over the pain and remount.?"
Linken nodded his head in agreement, and with a swift yank the spike was removed, making a small 'tick' as the bloody projectile struck the stone path. Gently patting his friend upon the opposite shoulder, the elf turned towards the caravan and clapped his hands, raising his voice enough to where the echo would carry his words to the pack of the group, "Alright, everyone, grab your gear and let's get moving!" As the caravans began to roll once more, the elf would simply turn and follow behind his friend on foot.
Western Gate
A single soldier guards this place; his grim demeanor and deadly weapon is all the argument he'll give for not allowing further passage through the doors beyond. These large doors are made of the strongest wood and reinforced with thick steel bands. A pulsing magical seal, which constantly glows azure and scarlet, is the third force preventing any from passing beyond. The extremes would make most wonder as to the mysteries hidden behind this gateway, but as there is no way to penetrate its guard, the only way to go is east, back to Mine Road.
Mythayus rested his right arm in his lap. Looking around the area afraid that the fresh blood would stir up some trouble. after several passes around the cave with his eyes, he lets out a sigh of relief."We'll continue west."
Linken smiled faintly, patting Myth's horse on the rear before reaching up to his shoulder, adjusting the strap that carries the weight of his sword. "Almost there, friend.."
Doorway to the West
The tunnel opens here into a large cavern, allowing light to filter down. The walls of the cavern itself, once covered with intricate carvings and scenes from history, now retain only vague shapes and indentions. A few long, jagged scrapes glare outward like scars on an old man's arm, all that remains of images that had long ago been forcefully removed. The cavern opens out onto a large arch, the white stones reflecting the light as it sweeps down to a road set in a barren, brown landscape. The softer lands of the East have come to an end; here the West begins.
Mythayus lets out a sigh, "Yes, were almost there.I'll be happy when i get a nice stiff drink in me." He looks around being extra careful. " We'll continue west."
Linken 's thoughts began to trail as their journey came to an end. So much waited for him at his home: A woman who loved him, children who adored him: he was eager to shed himself of his gore stained garments and try to return to his normal life for a brief time, forgetting the traumatic events that have come to pass this day.
Desolate Lands
The ground here is littered with stones of various shapes and sizes, and pitted with places once occupied by boulders. The earth itself is cracked in many places; the desperate need for water far too evident. The wind shifts suddenly and often, tossing particles of reddish dust into the air and bringing with it the strong scent of decay. Boulders break the flat terrain, fallen from the sullen mountains to the east. Stones hang loosely from the cliffs above, ready to fall at any moment, making the way northward dangerous. To the south, a white road can be seen.
Mythayus too was ready for this to be over. He could feel the strength fading. 'Just alittle while longer,' he thought.'Injured or not you can do this, plus my love should be home by now.' He shook the thoughts from his head. "We'll continue south."
Linken watched as Mythayus' strength began to wane, concern shining through his eyes as he patted him reassuringly upon the leg. "Come on, friend, we will get that wound dressed as soon as we get there..."
Traveling The Causeway
The causeway begins a southward drop here, angling down into the lowlands. Mist blankets the Venturil basin, so that to continue south is to travel into the unknown. The fresh, white stones of the road seem in good repair, kept clean of carrion and debris. The edges of the road are lined with monuments, erected in honor of those who have died along this path. The writing on the memorial stones looks fresh, but it is carved in the ancient script found among the barrows to the west.
Mythayus nodded. He turned to face the convoy. "Were almost to Venturil! Just Alittle bit more and we'll be there we're gonna continue on South." His voice didnt show any signs of being tired or in pain. but his body was certainly showing it.
Linken sighed, his own legs growing weary from the distance they have traveled. "The first round is on me, friend," he said with a faint chuckle, attempting to lighten the baggage they both carried from the aftermath of battle. It was a long, treacherous journey, and the two of them were well deserving of a long rest.
Outskirts of Venturil
A set of gleaming white fortifications rise up to the south, raised higher than ever before. Ornately engraved letters spell out the name "Venturil". Great white walls dominate the southern sky, the ramparts dotted with patrolling guards, mere specks from this distance, that march between rounded towers and mounted catapults.
Mythayus smiled at the thought of alcohol and just going home. His was certainly feeling the blood lose. "The Main street is just ahead. We'll continue south." He sighed.
Linken let his gaze wander as they made their way through the city's streets. It had been some time since he had venture as far as Venturil, though he refused to let his mind wander further, wearily shaking his head as he pressed on with the troupe.
Main Street
The street here is fully restored, with the vendor stalls refurbished and refilled. New merchants have set up their wares, and the folk of Venturil once more barter and argue over the prices. Tobar remains and, having sworn his oath of fealty to the King, has been granted his own stall, upon which he proudly displays his list, finish each transaction with a cheerful, ‘Gods bless the king!’ From a shop build below the street level, smoke rises, along with the clang of metal on metal, marking where a new smithy has opened. To the west, the Venturil’s housing district stretches outward, while a prosperous inn stands to the east. Just south of the vendors’ stalls stands Castle Venturil, dominating the landscape, while northward lies the rest of the city, and the gates.
Mythayus let out a sigh of relief, "Were here!" He exclaimed "Were here everyone. Time for some wel deserved rest!." He gave a laugh of exhaustion.
Linken sighed with relief, an anxious smile painting his features as he lowered himself directly to the ground, the steam of his hot breath nearly visible as he took the moment to recuperate somewhat. "Finally..."
Mythayus rubbed his face knowing his job wasnt over just yet. "Alright, Lets get those horses to the stables now! King Eboric Should be pleased, Stares at the 10 caravans full of raw material and blinks he had no clue where to send it..."Ummm...Lets take that to the stables to, the king can figure out where to put it," It was clear he was tired. He over saw the moving of the horses and the material being moved. He watched as the people he had helped got dispersed to rest and relax from the trying day of travel.
Linken rose to his feet with a pained grunt, making his way over to Mythayus and placing a congratulatory hand upon his shoulder. "Well, friend...We did it. It was a rough journey, but we got everyone here safely..." Linken said to you, "Sadly, I must be going...My woman and children eagerly await my return. Are you capable of handling things from here, friend?"
Mythayus nods, "I have everything under control friend you go to your wife and kids.I'll be fine." He offered the man a tired smile.
Linken chuckled gratefully, offering his friend a tired wave before turning and slowly making his way home. Did he have quite the story to tell...