Glorious Alpha Two Testers!
Phase I of Alpha Two testing will occur on weekends. Each weekend is scheduled to start on Fridays at 10 AM PT and end on Sundays at 10 PM PT. Find out more here.
Check out Alpha Two Announcements here to see the latest Alpha Two news and update notes.
Our quickest Alpha Two updates are in Discord. Testers with Alpha Two access can chat in Alpha Two channels by connecting your Discord and Intrepid accounts here.
Phase I of Alpha Two testing will occur on weekends. Each weekend is scheduled to start on Fridays at 10 AM PT and end on Sundays at 10 PM PT. Find out more here.
Check out Alpha Two Announcements here to see the latest Alpha Two news and update notes.
Our quickest Alpha Two updates are in Discord. Testers with Alpha Two access can chat in Alpha Two channels by connecting your Discord and Intrepid accounts here.
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He stands in a room that is a very simple one, set aside for guests, it has two simple beds, a simple brown dresser, and a simple brown table with two chairs. He looks over to one of the beds for a second, the one Sam uses, it’s not be touched in a while. His friend has been doing his own training too, but nothing close to what he does. Sam’s training is more for the mind vs. the body, the collection of books stacked on a simple shelf by his bed tells him that, and most are mainly in elfish. Henry didn’t know Sam could read that language, but of course, he was schooled in the arts of healing back home, and there were a few elf instructors.
Now he finds himself trying to remember a family life from years ago, he was only five when he lost his mother and father, but those memories are hard to recall. There was no other family to speak of to take him in, so he found himself placed with the town's orphanage. That’s where he met Sam, his best friend in life, one that helped him get through those hard times back then.
When he reached the age of eight, the fighters guild came a calling. One of their group, once a year, would look for the unwanted children, and pick out who they could use. Of course, they pick both Sam and him, mainly to be housekeepers, and do odd jobs within the guild house.
That’s when he first came to Ravenslight, and guild of highly trained fighters and supporting cast. A guild knows for its good honor with the people, and they try to help when they can with the needy. At least that is what he was told day one, but Henry never has seen any action within the guild, why would he, in the beginning, he was only a child.
The first few months were the hardest, a man called Finn was hard on the new kids. Thinking back Henry figured he was testing them to see who had what it took to stick around. Those that didn’t pan out would be returned from where they were found, at least the lucky ones, like some he didn’t recall what became of them. But there where rumors some got traded off to other guilds for money or weapons. But that was a rumor, after all, to think a high prided guild like the Ravenslight would trade people for items is unthinkable, then again what did happen to those few that didn’t make the cut?
Henry now remembers Finn would have them scrubbing and washing the dirtiest things around the house, or tending to the horses in the stables, making sure each and one was washed and feed before we sat down for a meal. Some kids would even get a good beating with an old switch made from a long weed. Henry remembers that pain from that switch, but he never cried out when he got beat. Maybe it’s why he was picked to be a fighter, they see he could take a good beating, and not ball up in a corner to cry, just stood his ground to take what was to be given.
Looking out the window a little longer, he watches a few of the town's kids playing in a patch of newly fallen snow. There is a small park-like area just off the main street, looks like a nice place set aside for different activities, but with winter being here, it’s just a place where the kids play to keep out of trouble. He watches as they build walls, and toss balls of snow at each other, still, others make figures to stand watch over the newly formed forth now taking shape. Henry can only laugh to himself at the sight of the children at play, a smile that was once on his face slowly fades, as now the though of a lost childhood enters his mind. This is one thing he never really had, as he was mainly used as a workhorse, then taken to be a skilled fighter. There wasn’t time to play, not like this, only time to do what was told had to be done.
A knock on the door gets his attention now, as it slowly opens, a three servant girls dressed in fine white tight dresses that have a deep v-neck, enter with a couple of trays of food and a large pitcher and ale. Henry watches them carefully, as they move quietly to prepare the table in the room for the evening meal. He sees one is wearing her silky blue hair to the left, showing off her long pointed ear on the right side, as it sports a fine golden earring lining the lower edges. She looks up at him for a short moment and smiles with a blush, then they bow slightly and turn to leave the room.
Henry wanted to ask a few questions, but he knows these servants were told not to speak with him. They only do what is told of them to the letter, and not one ever wavers from their instructions. But this time one at least smiled at him, maybe he can get a few answers from her one day. Otherwise, if he wants answers to any questions he needs to ask those in charge, but Ebrae always makes him pay for those answers he gets in return. Blast that woman, he thinks to himself, then he rubs the golden collar around his neck. Then it’s this blasted thing, a slave collar? Something to make him do what is told? Since it’s been put on him he gets a few whispers in his mind, a short sweet voice, that helps to push him a little more. At times he even gets a kick, like a drug to enhance what he can do, every time he feels like giving up the voice pushes him on.
But for now, it matters now, as he looks at tonight’s meal. There is a dish of roasted hen, vegetables of different colors in different bowls, and a loaf of the hard bread with cheese on the side.
He picks up a mug to pour a little ale when the door opens once more to the room. This time its Sam entering, as he tosses a very large book he was carrying onto his bed and lifts his arms to stretch a bit. Sam is wearing an elfish robe, the hood in down showing off Sam’s jet black hair that looks is bit longer now. Sam normally wears in cut very short, but it has been a while since they both tended to such simple things as a hair cut.
“A long day I take it?”, asks Henry now handing a mug of ale to him.
“ Oh yes, that doctor had me healing everyone that entered his clinic today. Simple scars, then broken hands, and oh lets now forget the old man with the bad back. What do I know about backs I told the doc, but he told me to suck it up and correct the old guys back. I did my best I guess, I didn’t hear any screams or complaints, the old man left with a smile on his face when I was done. Then the doc push more books into my face, tells me to read and learn more. I am tired of reading!”
Sam drinks down his ale, while Henry now laughs, as they take a seat to begin their meal.
“ Sounds like you have a lot of your mind. “, says Henry now taking a sip of ale.
“ Oh, you don’t know the half of it, but tell me how is your training coming along? “, asks Sam now seeing a few brushes on his friend's face.
“ Oh don’t ask Sam, just know I am getting stronger, but that woman…….!”
Henry pauses then rips off a leg from the hen and tares into the flesh to eat. Sam takes his share of the meat, along with the other items offered up to eat. Then with a smile, he looks at Henry.
“ You want to see a new trick? “, asks Sam now taking out a small mirror.
He hands it to Henry and tells him to look into it carefully. All he can see is his bruised up face, with some thin facial hair that started to grow, and He looks up to Sam with a questioning look.
“ Ok, I am looking for what? “
Sam tells him to just look in the mirror, and he looks into the mirror once more. Still just his beat-up face, then he feels a warmth flow over it, he looks up to see Sam motioning with his right hand, as he points for him to keep looking in the mirror, and with a snap of his fingers, the burses vanish from his face.
Henry being amazed at the clean looking back at him now, as he touches and rubs each part of it, then he looks up to Sam to ask a question.
“ New trick? “
“ Yes, that and a lot more. The old doc wasn’t kidding when he said he was the best, I never knew he had a deep knowledge of the healing arts. I am trying to learn as much as I can, in the time we are here.”
“ Speaking of that Sam, anyone tells you how long they are keeping us here? “, asks Henry, only getting a shrug of the shoulders in return.
Well, when they pay off this money, then they can return to their own town, but Henry has a feeling it’s not going to be that simple, as they continue their meal, and talk into the night.
To be continued……………………
From her warm bedroom window, Ebrae watches the storm just outside, as she continues to carve a small wooden figure with her tiny blade in her hand. A warm fire blazes in the small fireplace behind her, as she gives the wooden figure a few puffs of air from her mouth. She looks it over slowly, examining two extended wings, a long beak, and bold thick chest, making a few more small cuts in the fine wood. The tail is the most tricky part, as she finishes craving a griffin.
She smiles at what she just made, and walks over to a large displace case, and places the griffin next to a Nighthawk she craved a few days ago. She loves creatures of flight and dreams of the day she might get to ride one. But there are better mounts that she bonded to deeply, as she picks up a craving of a Swift Claw. Her family clan uses them as their main mounts, and take them when hunting or tracking prey. But now it’s winter, and they are hibernating in the deep tunnels. They are well-protected at this time of year, with guards posted in and outside of the tunnel system. Even a few tamed mountain cats are used within the tunnels, to help keep away unwanted guests. But she misses her pet she named Slasher, she helped to raise and train him, as they have a very special bond. He will not let anyone ride him or barely just touch, only a few trainers can even get close with her help in his training to accept the handlers.
The wind outside begins to pick up now, as a cold chill moves through her room. She puts the figure back on the display, as she fills a slight chill run along her back. That, in turn, gets her to pull her light blue robe a little tighter, as she moves to toss a few more logs on the fire. It happily accepts the gift of wood and grows bigger and hotter to warm the room a bit more.
A knock on the door gets her attention now, she didn’t call for any aids or servants, and everyone knows not to disturb her when she is in her room. The door slowly opens, and she knows who it is before a face can be seen.
“ Hello sister, I just wanted to see how you're getting along. “, says Madris entering with five lit candles.
I am fine dear sister, I was about to go to bed, now if you would excuse me. “
Ebrae turns away and drops her robe on the floor, showing off a laced flower-patterned nightgown, that shows off light traces of her light skin.. She moves to sit on the bed, as her sister continues to speak.
“ I am not going to be a long dear sister. I just wanted you to know. I need you to escort the two Alea back home, once the roads are clear of the new snowfall of course.”, says Madris now moving to pick up Ebrae’s robe off the floor.
She takes it to a chair by a small table and neatly places it on the edge of the chair. Madris looks at her sister, who in turn gives her a frown in return.
“ You know this is my room right, I don’t need you to pick things up for me. “, she says with arms crossed.
Madris only smiles at her and continues to speak.
“ Ebrae, I need you to stay with the one called Henry, until he pays off the debt he owes me, the sum of five thousand gold, and I want you to collect it for me.”
“ Why me? Can’t you find someone else to do this job? It’s bad enough you talked me into training him, now you want me to be your debt collector too? “, says Ebrae now moving to a secured chest by her bed.
She opens it up using a key she had hidden in her long golden hair, and a combo of switches she pushes after a few turns. Inside is an array of items she holds dear, along with bags of jewels and coins. She takes one large bag out and tosses it at the feet of her sister, who in turn looks at her with a smile.
“ There you go, five thousand gold pieces, I am paying off that stupid debt, and now you can let those fools go free. “, says Ebrae looking her in the eyes.
Madris gives the bag a wave of her hand, then it returns to her sister’s chest and locks back up, as the key returns to Ebrae hand.
“ What are you playing at Madris? If it‘s not about the money, what do you want from them? “
“ You will find out. Just keep training them, while on the way to their home. Once you have taken them back, your free to come back home to me.”
A smile continues to cross Madris face, as she now turns to leave the room. But once she places a hand on the door, and knife sinks into the wood of the door next to her head. She turns to look over her shoulder and continues to smile.
“ Temper….. Temper my sweet sister, I love how you play. But remember what I said, or do I have to send for their father to explain your position here? “, Says Madris with a gleam in her eye.
“ No Madris, you don’t need to send for father, we both know he will only come back early if it’s an emergency, and he told us he will return in the spring. To send for him now will only make problems between us, ones I am sure you will blame me for, as you are one of his favorites.”, says Ebrae now turning her gaze out the window.
“ That’s right, now you behave yourself, and do as your told. Have a good night dear sister, when this storm is over, our brother will be clearing the road to the Alea town.”
Ebrae returns her attention to Madris now, a bit of excitement crosses her face.
" Hagred is here? When did he return? “, says Ebrae now standing to her feet.
“ Only just a few hours ago, but he told me not to disturb you. Now go to bed, you have a busy day tomorrow.”, says Madris now leaving the room.
As the door closes shut behind her sister, Ebrae moves to look at the frost-covered window, as she can’t see anyone on the streets below. Thoughts of her older brother cross her mind. He is the firstborn of the family and is more powerful in many ways then Madris. But he is an adventurer, and never had a taste for the political life. Maybe it’s why she liked him the best of all her siblings, they are of like minds, even though he is of the magical arts, and she was more of a skilled fighter.
She turns to look at her robe on the chair, where Madris place it, and she takes hold of it to only toss it back on the floor where she dropped it originally. It’s her room after all, and if she wants her things on the floor, that’s where it will stay. Then she goes to lay in bed, as the fire continues to burn in the fireplace.
To be continued…………
As paths slowly clear, wagons are used to help remove piles of the white powder to the river banks, where once the spring warmth returns, all of it will return to the mother of the rivers. As told to the children of the town, that the mother of the river loves to receive the gift of snow in the winter, and returns it to the waters to feed her rivers, so they can take of the life that it brings in the spring. This is what has been told to each and every generation if for nothing else it helps to motivate the removing of the town's snowfall.
Shovels dig deep, as snow is tossed into wagons, buckets or wheelbarrows. Anything that can help to remove it faster is used but all in town, each with their own way to move it along faster. But as work continues, the sound of a whip cracks and echoes through the air, as a few town folks pause at its sound. Hearing it again a few shake their heads in disappointment, while others closer to the sound stop digging, and quickly rush to roll out large canvas tied from the tops of their awnings to the base of the ground, while others, who are merchants, run to hitch up wagons, and rush to load up a few more boxes and barrels of goods. The crack of the whip is very loud now, as the sound of thundering hooves rubble in the air. One merchant now climbs up to get ready in his wagon, now seeing a wall of snow being pushed to both sides of the street, and the sound of the whip cracks once more. As white power blinds him for a second, he looks up to see a large man in a heavy brown long coat driving four large horses, his face covered with dark brown hair, and he wears a big floppy fur hat. He is driving a large white royal couch in golden trim, and the merchant can barely see the three passengers that are riding inside. He has no time to ponder who they are, as the other merchants have already moved to quickly move their wagons behind the first. This is Hagred alright the merchant thinks, who else would be doing this winter run to the other towns, that whip he uses cuts a path through the deep snow, like a hot knife through butter. So he smiles and finds his position in the long line of wagons, that follows the quickly moving lead coach out of town.
Looking out a side window, Sam sits amazed at how the deep snow is being pushed aside from in front of them and looks to Ebrae, who is dress in combat winter gear, for answers to what is going on. But her attention is focused on the door leading out, and before he can ask his question, she puts a hand on the door and looks to Henry.
“ I am going out to talk to my brother, I will knock three times, then I want you to open the door. Do you understand me, Henry? “
He nods to her, and she quickly leaves to go sit outside with her brother, as the door swing shut behind her.
“ Well that was odd. “, says Sam, looking to Henry with a puzzled look.
Henry can only smile back, as the sound of the whip continues outside pushing the deep snow away.
“ Her brother must be a powerful magic-user, it’s the only answer I have as to how he is doing what we are seeing Sam. “, he says now looking out at the forest passing outside.
Sam removes some of his winter wear, as he is feeling overheated, then he can see a convoy of wagons behind them, as they turn at a bend in the road.
“ Looks like we have a lot of wagons following us, at least now I understand how they are able to move goods in the winter so fast.”
“ I wondered that same thing too, but seeing it all in action, just makes me wonder if we picked the wrong jobs in the guild,” says Henry with a laugh.
“ Do you know where we are going, Henry? I didn’t get an answer when we were rushed into this blasted coach. “
“ They are taking us home Sam. Back to the guild, at least that was what I was told. “, says Henry now removing his winters coat.
The heat in the space is getting hotter, and when Sam voices concern over it, the temperature goes down to a more comfortable level. Then the sound of four knocks on the left door gets there attention. Sam looks out the window and sees no one, as there are four knocks again. He slightly opens the door to look outside, but he quickly met by a dwarf server with a drink tray in his left hands. He bows to them both and offers up a hot drink for them both, and they take it slowly from his tray. Bowing once more the servant turns and leaves the coach, and Sam looks to see where he went but there is no sign of him.
Henry smells the brew and takes a sip, it’s hot apple cider, and it hit’s the right spot in his belly. Sam takes a drink of the brew too but looks to Henry with a very puzzled look.
“ Did you see that Henry? That little female dwarf just walked in here, and served us like we were having morning breakfast. “, says Sam as a new knock on the door gets his attention. This time it’s two knocks, followed by two more, this time it comes from Henry side of the coach, and he opens the door. They watch as two more female dwarves enter the area, each with a small tray of food, and they hand them over to both Sam and Henry, then bow and leave as quick as they came. Each tray holds boiled two eggs, four sausages, and a few tarts.
“ Well now, this is what I call service, we had nothing like this back at home right Henry? ’, says Same as three knocks come to the door by Henry.
This time it’s not a dwarf, but only Ebrae entering now, and she is holding her own tray of food with drink. She can see the surprised look on both of their faces, then she smiles with a reply.
“ You don’t think you’re the only ones who got served of this trip? “
“ Yes, but who did you ….’
“ Try not to hurt yourself thinking about it, and enjoy your meal ok. “, says Ebrae to Sam as he takes a deep drink of cider.
She looks to Henry, who is not eating, but looking out the window, as his golden band is slightly glowing. Madris must be talking to him again, but what is she up too. Hagrid told her to be watchful of Henry, as their aunt has warned him about Madris, that she has a dark cloud over her, and it’s taken root in her life. Ebrae thinking on it feels burning to her skin, then an itching, she rubs the area after putting his food down, things not to show this discomfort of it. The mark sits on her left shoulder, and it’s shaped like a dragon's head. All of the children of the Stormhands have this make, but each bare it in different places. It was told since their parents were tied to the great dragon, it forever marks all of there line, to claim them all as children of the great dragon. But it’s an old wise tale she was told as a child. She always viewed it as a birthmark, and mark that looks like a dragon's head.
She takes a deep drink of cider, trying not to think on it more, as the coach speeds along the road to Henry’s home town.
To be continued……..
This settlement wasn't built by a cave by accident, as it has medicinal plants, along with deep mineral riches and fine gemstones which is of great importance to the people of Wilderock and its success. People come here far and wide seeking their fortunes within the cave, and it’s said there is a dungeon beyond the deepest parts beyond the deepest levels of the cave. Many adventurers have gone to those deeper levels inside, to explored the dungeon, but few have ever returned from that venture.
The settlement itself looks gruesome and worn out. With its black wooden rooftops, murky wooden walls and a large graveyard, Wilderock has a gritty atmosphere, along with dark alleys and seedy taverns.
The main attraction is the town's crystal node, it sits in the center of town, giving off a soft bluish glow as if it's alive waiting to grow.
Wilderock has a hurting economy as well, which is mainly supported by armorsmithing, jewel crafting, and animal training. But their biggest strengths are weaponsmithing and sustainable hunting.
However, Wilderock lacks people skilled in wood production, and they rely on shipments of wood from other towns.
Despite its strengths and weaknesses, Wilderock is most likely headed towards a bright future under the leadership of Mayor Hanson. But this remains to be seen, as the guild of Ravenslight keeps tight control on the citizens of the town.
Inside one of the more well-visited taverns sits Richard Mason, holding a wooden mug of the tavern's finest beers. While others discuss the days' events, and still others speak on the business of the guild as a whole. Jokes can be heard from time to time, and few laughs echoes around the room. But Richard finds no joy in the days lighter moods, as he reflects on the events of the past few weeks, then he takes a deep drink of the bittersweet brew from the old mug he holds tight.
Not far away comes Korneel Veldman holding four more mugs of polished grey metal in both hands, while pushing past a few of the smellier visitors, who in turn seeing him quickly part ways to stand clear. They know Korneel has been known to give a good thumping to anyone that would dare get in his way, and his friend Richard, who seems to get stronger with every brew he drinks, would finish off those who would be stupid enough to think they had a chance to challenge them.
The tavern is very busy today, as word has come up that the mine has opened up once more by Mayor Hanson, and adventurers are needed to help clear out the zones of both creatures and beasts lurking in the shadows.. The first few levels never have anything stronger than a few Mushroos, at least that’s what the locals call them. Monsters that take on the vale of giant mushroom creatures, that are quick to attack someone or thing that gets to close to them. There are also the cave goblins, small in size with very nasty personalities. With twisted faces and vile smelly bodies, they cower in the shadows normally but are very brave when they have the numbers.
As whispers begin to go up to about the dungeon at the bottom, some brave souls want to test their metal in that zone, but others discourage newcomers from trying a foolish thing.
Korneel finally finds his way back to the table where Richard is sitting, while more muting about the cave continues, then he pushes two of the mugs he was holding over to his friend.
“ It’s about bloody time. I was getting down to my last drop of this piss water.”, says Richard now tossing his empty mug to the side.
“ I know my friend, but the place is busy, and the barmaids have no time to see everyone. That’s why I went and got my own. “, says Korneel now holding up a mug for a toast.
“ To our fallen friends, and to those who can no longer fight at our side.”
“ Aye, to our brothers may the gods' smile of them all this day.”, says Richard as he taps mugs and they take a deep drink of ale.
As they put their empty mugs on the table, the doors to the tavern swung open, and a cold wind blows in from outside. Richard looks up to see a party of newcomers, in shiny armor. Some of the women voice some excitement, as they try to get the attention of the leader of this new group. He doesn’t have a scar of his face with a squared-off chin, every blonde hair is in place on top of his head, and his deep blue eyes scan the area for a moment. The armor he wears can’t hide the fact he is very muscular, and it looks to almost hugging his body like a second skin.
The handsome fighter seeing both Richard and Korneel, now pushes his way over to their table. Richard doesn’t give him a second look, as Korneel tells his friend to stay calm, but he does all he can to keep from tossing the table when he feels the cold hand of the leader of the party rest on his right shoulder.
“ Well, well, well……if it isn’t my old friends Korneel and Richard. I heard you two lost over half your party on a simple hunt. What a real shame. Plus old man Garric meeting his end as he did, now buried up there on Heroes End with the rest of them. What a real shame. “, says the handsome fighter giving Richard a few pats.
He removes his hand from Richard now, as he smiles at the pare.
“ You know my party could always use a couple more good fighters like yourself, why don’t you two join us on this new raid into the caves? I hear a large raiding party is going into the dungeons, and I know you don’t want to miss that. “, says the handsome fighter, now moving to rest a hand on the table.
“ We will be fine Hayden. We have a new party forming, and we don’t need your help. So no thank you. “, says Richard in a calm voice.
“ Well, if you two change your mind, you know where to find us. Team six is always ready to meet all challenges. “, says Hayden with a laugh, and he turns to join his fellow party members.
Korneel slides in a little closer to Richard now, to whisper low so no one can hear.
“ When did you start looking for a new party?”
Just then the doors open once more to the outside air, as Richard turns to see a pair of familiar faces. Korneel can't believe his eyes as Sam and Henry enter the tavern, followed by the elf girl Ebrae. Richard stands now and gives Korneel a big smile.
“ I told you I had a party coming. Now look at who shows up.”, says Richard now patting him on the back.
“ I don’t think they are here to join a raiding party, what makes you think they will join the others?”
“ Have a little faith, my friend. Anyway, let us welcome our friends properly, I am sure they have lots to tell. “, says Richard as they move over to greet their dear friends.
Ebrae, on the other hand, stands off to the side, as the four give hugs and greet each other. Whispers go up, speaking about her, as she feels unwelcoming eyes from every area of the room focused on her now.
To be continued………………….
Not far off from the groups of adventures are groups of workers, all of which get mining gear, and collection tools ready in smaller carts, while setting up bins with the mark of whatever merchant is sponsoring the trip into the dark mine.
Off to the side is a large stage set up on the side of the road, and one it stays the leader of the town Honorable Mayor J. H. Hanson. He is wearing his best winter’s fur coat, while draped with a long scarf that has the colors of the town which are gold, red and blue, and topped off with a very tall top hat with the symbol of the office of mayor on it.
To his right stand members of the city council, and to his left stand officers for the guild Ravenslight.
Watching from a distance stand Ebrae with her oldest brother Hagrid, she turns to watch him tend to his team of horse for a short moment, then returns her attention to the crowd of people listening to the town’s Mayor talk.
“ What is all this muttering about brother? Why are so many people here?”, she says while looking over the crowd of bodies coming and going.
“ Why this is the yearly mine opening event, the town’s biggest draw. Why do you think so many wagons followed us from Fandralore. It’s a great time to make a few coins, and show off a few wares.”, says Hagrid while petting one of his horses.
Ebrae reaches up to feel the tip of her cold right ear, then looks over to her brother who doesn’t have the pointed tipped ears of an elf. She gives a sigh, as a few more humans pass by giving her a nasty look.
“ What’s wrong? Are you missing home already?”, questions Hagrid looking at her with a smile.
“ No, it’s not that. Your so lucky to not be cursed with these stupid ears, at least you can pass for one of them. Me, they look at me with hate in their eyes. Why is that, why do they hate us so much?
Hagrid can see his sister has a little pain with those words, she hasn’t been this far from home, she isn’t well-traveled like he is. So he moves a little closer to her to cheer her up.
“ Oh, I wouldn’t worry too much about those looks. I got a few when I first came to this town, but the locals learned to respect me now, and they look forward to my visits now. “
Before Ebrae can reply, a merchant comes up to Hagrid with a smile on his face and hands him a few prized rabbits, and a small bag of coins. Then she watches as he motions for others to move wagons in behind Hagrid's coach. Others come up as well and repeat what the first one did, giving what they can in items and money, and they too fall in behind his coach.
“ Looks like your doing well for yourself, they accept you as one of them after all. Plus you can pass for one of them. You so lucky. “, says Ebrae while watching more merchants passing by.
After handing off a few of the items given to him to one of his workers, he moves over to give his sister one last smile as he points to a wagon rolling past.
“ It’s not about where you come from my dear, or what you are. It’s about who you are and the character within your heart. They respect me cause they see me as a good person and one that can help drive them to the next markets.”
Ebrae giggles at his last few words as he continues.
“ But if you can be who you are inside, the person I know you are, they will see what I see.”
“ And what is that brother?”
“ A pain in the butt, and a good soul.”, says Hagrid with a laugh.
He taps her on the chin with his finger, then gives her a big hug goodbye. She waves to him as his boards his coach to leave. Then he turns to look at her one last time.
“ Watch over the Henry fellow Ebrae, remember what I said about your sister. And watch your back.”, he turns with a snap of the whip and leads a new team of merchants out of town.
Ebrae yells to her brother one last goodbye, as he returns to wave as he fades down the road out of town.
Ebrae now looking over the crowd of people, sees Henry with his friends, and makes her way over to them. If there is an adventure to be had, she will be in the middle of it.
Over by the cave, Henry watches as two more groups enter into the dark tunnels, and he stands with Sam while Richard and Korneel are looking around talking with other people in the crowd.
A horn sounds and four more groups enter the caves. Now Henry watches as his friends continue to question the people standing around. He remembers what the Mayor told the people, not groups under six will be allowed into the caves, and last he checked they are only four.
With discuss on his face, Richard walks back over to Henry, followed by Korneel, and he voices how he feels to the group.
“ It’s no good, not one bloody person is looking to join a group, everyone here is already teamed up. They will not let us in, and it’s looking like we will be on guard duty if we don’t find some people soon. “, says Richard still looking around the area.
“ I know, but we can still try. “, says Korneel now planting a banner on a tall pole.
Richard shakes his head with discussing, looking at the signal for party recruits. He rather picks the person, not have the person pick them, but this is the last act of a desperate group. The banner stands high in the frosty air, as more groups are signaled to enter the mines. A new deeper horn sounds, as the workers who were standing by, now take up their gear and begin to enter the mine.
Richard seeing that gets a sad look on his face.
“ Well that’s it, boys, we will be on guard duty now, they cleared the first few levels of the mine. “, says Richard now crossing his arms.
But just then a tall slender man dress in black leather walks up to them the group and bows. He gives them a friendly smile, as he speaks to the group.
“ I see you're looking for people to join your group. My name is Oliver, and I am a spell sword in the skill set. I would like to join your party if you have a room. “
Before the others can reply to him, a second person walks up to the group.
“ Aye, I see you're looking for recruits, I would love to join you. My name is Sarah, and I am a shadow blade, one of the best in the business. Do you still have room for one more?”, she says with a smile.
Richard smiles wide along with them, and welcomes the two into the party, while Korneel goes over the details of how they will operate and divide up the loot. When Ebrae now walks over to the group.
Richard frowns a little after seeing her, then lets her know she isn’t welcomed with his eyes. But Henry smiles at the sight of her and moves to welcome her over.
" I am glad to see you didn’t leave with your brother Ebrae, So are you coming with us into the mines? “, asks Henry with a questioning look.
Before she can answer him, or Richard can voice his disapproval, Korneel walks over to welcome her into the group. She thanks him, and moves over next to Sam and Henry, who in turn greet her with smiles.
“ Is this your first time in a raiding group?”, asks Sam.
“ No, but it’s the first time going underground, but I am looking forward to the adventure. “, says Ebrae with a smile.
Richard with a frown walks over to her and puts a finger out pointed at her face.
“ Well this isn’t your woods now isn’t, so try not to get yourself killed. “,
“ Don’t worry about me Richard, you just try to keep up with me.”, says Ebrae staring back at him with a cold look now.
Ricard seeing the warriors look in her eyes, backs off with a laugh now, as his frown fades fast, and he feels at ease knowing in his heart, she is a very good fighter. Nothing to worry about with her, but then he looks over to Henry. Richard is a little concerned about him, after all, he did freeze in the battle with the beast, will he freeze again?
The last horn sounds for the adventurers to enter the mines, and the last few groups enter, and Korneel know they just beat the clock with their last-minute members. So Richard takes the lead in a group of a Ranger, Spellsword, Shadowblade, Cleric, and three fighters counting himself as one of them. They make their way into the mine called Cave of the Thunder Goblin.
To be continued…………………..
Hey, thx for the compliment, and don't give up. I have issues with other areas in writing still, but I find ways to help me get around it. Just write and don't worry how it looks or if it works, you can fix it later. Oh After I finish this chapter, I will be working on a scifi book. I have it mapped out in my head, just need to put it in writing. lol
Not a problem mate just move and relax we will gladly wait ^^
Levels eleven and twelve are much harder and have a few of the mushroos beasts. Here also is the great Mushroom forest, some that even grow higher than trees. Within these halls, the mushroos guard the highly prizes mosses and fungus used in the higher leveled positions, and they don’t give them up easily. So much so they fight off any group that steps a foot on these levels, to the point some groups have to camp the area to keep the numbers low, while the workers can get the time to rush in a take what they can carry, watching for any new spawns that quickly pop up without warning.
Past the twelve levels is a wide-open warm cavern, one that has colored gems on the walls, that reflect an unseen light from high above. One that lights up the area like the sun in the noon sky. This area has been claimed by the guild and is used to rearm and repair any groups that need it. Small tents and makeshift shacks make up a very small town in this place, giving a home to blacksmiths, innkeepers, weapon dealers and everything else that is needed. So many adventures regroup in this place, one would think this is a normal town to be visited. But this town of no-name only pops up when the raids begin and is taken down once the raids are over. So as it goes each time the mines are opened.
Standing at the far end this town is Henry, and he looks toward the mighty golden gates that lead to level thirteen. A light shines down on the heavy barrier gates from above, giving off a shiny glow, and he watches as a few groups form up and wait close to the gates. He knows this next level isn’t one to take lightly or to go in unprepared. Many a party has never returned, and those that do speak of great dangers within. He counts the number of groups forming up, two, then six, then he stops counting after ten as they still continue to come. He looks around for his group, they have been in the town for two days now, resting and getting a plan for going forward or going back up. He remembers Korneel felt they made enough gold on this trip, and we should head back up, but Richard wanted to see what’s past the great gold gates, and face what on level thirteen. It was something the others wanted too, why come all this way if we didn’t try. Of course, Henry agreed with Korneel too, but they were outvoted and here he waits. He takes out his sword, looks it over, the local blacksmith gave it a good grid to sharpen the edge a bit, light from above reflects off it, as he returns it to his side.
“ Feeling nervous? “, says a voice from behind.
Henry turns to see it’s Ebrae, as she smiles back at him. She is wearing new leather brown armor from the local town and has put her long blonde hair into a single brad that she has draped over her left shoulder. She has twin swords crossing on her back, and a quiver of arrows on her left side, and a short sword on her right. Over her right shoulder is a dragon bow, one that Henry has asked about its origins before, only to get told it was past down to her.
“ No I am not nervous, but I am concerned. I have never been this deep into the mines before, heck I never got past level two. Now look at me, I am in the last staging grounds to the deep levels. “
“ Well, it’s the first time for me too, I have learned a lot while fighting with your friends. Also, the creatures in this place were not so bad, I have faced a lot worst. ’, says Ebrae now standing next to Henry.
A horn blows a long echoing tune, as the barriers are removed and the great golden gates are slowly opened. Moving to the opening are a few tankers with heavy shields, as a large group of bowmen rushes in behind them ready to strike. From behind them a mage cast a spell of light, and sends it through the gates, as a second one cast an orb and it flies off the same way. A few moments go by, then a signal goes up to show all clear. Then the parties in front of the gate enter the next level.
“ Well, there they go. The lucky ones that drew first lots to enter the next level. “, says Ebrae now sitting on a large border close by them.
“ Some would say the second group is the lucky ones. Since the first groups would take a beating in the beginning. “, says Henry as the horn sounds again.
The gates close as the last group enters, the count being twenty-one groups of six, as the gates closed with a low thud. The tankers and bowmen return to their ready areas close by, as the barriers are put back into place, and a large hourglass is placed down to the time the next groups to enter.
“ What did we place again? “, asks Ebrae now crossing her legs on the large border, and rests her head in her right hand, with her elbow resting on her leg.
“ We are the last grouping at the forth draw. “, he says as he sits on the ground next to the boarder now resting his back against it.
“ Oh joy, I was hoping this would be a little more exciting. Wake me up when it’s our time to enter ok kid. “
“ Hey I am not a kid you know, plus you're not much older than me. “, says Henry looking slightly back.
But he only hears the sound of light snoring, and Ebrae has already closed her eyes. He is shocked at how fast she has fallen asleep, and in an odd position at that. But maybe she is right, better to get a little rest, as a voice in his mind tells him to sleep.
To be continued………………..
Its been a nutty few weeks, but things are finally settling back down, but still loads to unpack. I figured I had time to write a few posts, so yes I am back to a point. lol
Inside the tavern through the thick, wooden door, there is a slight calmness and aromas of what's probably food, hopefully. The bartender is smoking tobacco and makes no effort to acknowledge anyone’s presence, as a few teams of adventures planned for the next gate opening.
The tavern itself is almost completely abandoned, as a few of the teams make their way open the doors, but Richard sits staring at a biter mug of warm ale. Missing from his body is the armor he normally wears, left-back at the blacksmith for needed repairs, but the way he is put together his body is still a solid mass of muscle.
As he sits staring at his drink, he once heard rumors about this tavern, supposedly it's infamous for something, but for the life of him, he can't remember what for. Though judging by the dirt and unhygienic circumstances, it's probably food poisoning.
Sitting with him is Sarah the Shadowblade that join his party, she is wearing tight black padded leather armor, with slots that hold a few of her bladed weapons. Her pink colored hair is cut back short to the ears, and she stares at his face with bluish eyes, examining the long scar that goes down the length to his squared-off chin. She takes out a small dagger and begins to twist in her hand while looking at her reflection in the blade.
“ That must have hurt? “
“ What? “, says Richard now looking up from his mug.
“ Your scar. It looks deep and must still give you pain. Am I right? “, she questions with a little excited tone in her voice.
Richard looks her over, wondering who did he agree to let join his group, she can fight, as she has proven herself down to this point. She took out a few bands of creatures on her own and even saved Sam when he got targeted a few times. But she is acting like some new adventurer, one that is green behind the ears, and lacks the expertise of a long adventure. No, she might have the skills, but she is still young and doesn’t understand the darker side of adventuring.
He watches as she is still waiting on an answer about his scar, now watching him with starry eyes, and a big smile.
“ Come on tell me how you got it, you must have been in a good fight to get a scar like that? I have seen a few others in the guild with combat scars, they all treat them as a badge of honor. I see how others look at you, how they respect you. How did you get your scar? “
“ I lost a good friend when I got this scar, that’s all I am going to say about that. “, he says now taking a deep drink of bitter ale.
She looks over his face a little closer, with his straight chestnut hair that covers part of his face, and the part she can see had a good shave. She finds he gives her a few chills in a good way, as his brown eyes meet hers. There is a pain in him, she can see that much, it also comes out in his fighting, as she has watched him take risks when attacking the different groups. She finds it excites her watching him fight as he does, a strong man with no fear in his heart. Whatever pain is within, she might be able to help him ease in a bit, but now they sit in this out of the way place, drinking down the second-hand brew, and she can’t help but love every minute of the whole experience. After all, no other group gave her the chance to come this far, and Richard didn’t have to agree to bring her along. As far as she concerned, and now that she is here, the other teams can kiss her backside.
Richard slams down his mug on the table, snapping her out of the thought she was in with a jump and stands up ready to go. That really got her heart pumping, and she will make him pay for that slight scare.
“ Well time to go pick up my armor, it been long enough. Are you coming along too? “
Sarah stands with a smile and moves slowly to his side, then pushes in close to whisper in his ear, letting her chest press into his body a little.
“ How about we go blow off a little steam first, then we go and get your armor? “, she says now letting her hand move long his arm.
Richard smiles back at her and knows they do have a little time, after all, they are part of the last groups to cross the gates, and he does find her very attractive. So he happily agrees with Sarah, and they walk off to find a nice quiet spot to be alone. As a horn echoes in the distance, calling for the second wave of groups to enter the gates.
To be continued……………………
Thx, I will be trying to flesh out the others in the next part a little more.
Sam gets a very worried look, as he looks to his friend Korneel, who in turn pats him on the shoulder, giving him a steady look in return.
“ Courage Sam. This is how it always is with the gate, as we deal with what lives within. The first groups have done their jobs, now the second teams will do theirs next. “
“ But so many have fled the tunnels. So many of the same groups are missing their members. What is inside there that so many have returned in such a state? ‘, questions Sam with concern.
“ Death! That’s what we will find inside. “, says a voice from behind them.
Sam turns to see its Oliver the Spellsword that joined their party, and he moves up next to Sam wearing padded chain mail while holding up his long sword, as it glows red with the enchantment he cast on it a few minutes ago.
“ Listen, boy, I been in those gates before, and the horrors within them will send any sane man running in terror. “, says Oliver as he puts his sword away.
Sam returns his view to the gates, as the last wounded man limps out, all in all, he counted about ten parties of the twenty-one that started, what mostly returned of the groups, and what he can account of the missing members. Sam beings to feel a little ill, as the next groups ready to enter the gates, but a few of them mutter with their ranks, and a few groups part ways and return to town. New groups quickly take their place, as name-calling can be held in a joking manner, aimed at the ones who have made the choice to give way.
“ Blast it all, if our group was here now, we could have taken one of the empty spots. “, says Korneel with disappointment.
“ Don’t be so much in a rush to enter their Korneel, we were lucky to get into the last grouping, at least that way we will get a chance to see the end. “, says Oliver now taking out a newer bladed weapon to enchant.
Sam watches as the second groups now enter through the gates, he counts about fifteen from the original starting groups, and ten more parties were allowed to join them from the last grouping. That would leave about ten groups in the last group, and his heart sinks, even more, thinking about that.
“ No worries Sam, I can see you’re a little uneasy now. “, says Oliver now handing him a flank to drink from as he continues to speak.
“ I was in the first groups the last season, and we made it deep into the old dwarf halls. It is said there is a vast treasure at the end of it, one that was dug up by those dwarves so very long ago. But no one has ever laid eyes on it or knows if it’s even real. “
“ So why do we keep tossing away lives to try to find it? “, asks Sam returning the flask to Oliver.
“ Because Sam, there is truth to the tail. “, says Korneel now handing him a blue gemstone.
“ I too once was in those halls years ago, and my party made it close to the end, there we found a small treasure room, and that was one of the gems I took for that room. It wasn’t easy then, as we got forced back out by the creatures within. We took what we could as proof, and from that day forward, the guild master has been tossing bodies into the gates to find the rest of the riches. “
Sam can only look at the glimmer of the jewel in his hand now, as the horn sounds to close the gates once more. He never has seen such beauty in a gem, as it seems to take on a life of its own in his hand. The skill at shaping this gem was done by a true master, no wonder the guild what the rest of that treasure.
Sam hands the gem back to Korneel, but he refuses it, and tell him to keep it for himself. Sam figures Korneel must have his own little fortune of gems, as he thanks him and puts it in his travel bag.
“ Blast it all where are Richard and the others anyway? “. says Korneel now looking annoyed.
“ I believe Richard said he was going to get a drink in town, and I saw Sarah following him close behind. “, says Sam watching him get a little more upset.
“ And I passed Henry and Ebrae resting by a large boulder on the way down here. I figured we had time, so I let them be. “, says Oliver with a small smile.
“ oh for the gods' sake, go get them, I will go find Richard, and he better not be doing what I think he is. That old….”, Korneel mutters in other words as he storms off to town.
Sam and Oliver can only return to the spot Henry and Ebrae were last seen. Sam walks with Oliver a bit and questions him a little more.
“ You said you been in the gates before? What was it like? “
“ Well I wasn’t on a sight seeking adventure you know, my focus was on the job at hand. But when we had a small pause in the halls, it was a sight to see. The Dwarves of old who once lived here, they had a skill unmatched by no other. So refined was all the artwork, the etching of the runes, and that golden statues. Those alone at worth one hundred times the wealth of any kingdom. “, says Oliver with a wink.
“ Oh I see, but the creatures within, what will we be facing? “, asks Sam with concern now.
“ Sam, just know we will be counting on you to keep us healed and safe ok. You do that one job, and let us worry about the rest. No need to be thinking about what we will be facing, you keep your focus on us. You got it. “, says Oliver with a serious tone.
Sam sees he is very serious about what he just spoke, and nods an agreement in return, as they reach both Henry and Ebrae still resting on the big rock.
“ Sam stay here with them, I need to go back to town for a few more items, I will return as soon as I can. “, says Oliver now rushing off.
Sam voices a word of concern about the time, but his words fall of death's ears, as Henry stirs a little and looks up at Sam.
“ is it time to go yet? “
Sam looks down at his friend and gives him a small smile, as he sits down next to him.
“ No, we still have a little time, I would say about forty minutes or so. “, says Sam now resting his back against the big rock.
“ Oh, I figured we had to go now, that gives us a little more time to rest.”
“ I don’t know if I can rest, my stomach is all in knots, after watching the first groups return, I am not so sure about this quest. “, says Sam now holding his mid-section.
“ I know what you mean Sam, I am having some issues too, but something inside me is pushing me, and somehow the fear seems to melt away. :
“ Good, now you two shut your mouths, I am trying to sleep.”, says Ebrae from above them.
Sam looks up to see Ebrae now laying on her back, with her quiver of arrows under her head for a pillow.
“ She right let us not think about it, and rest a little longer.”, says Sam.as he leans back a bit more and closes his eyes to rest as best he can.
To be continued…………
A voice echoes in his head, waking him from the little sleep he was in.
Time to go.
Henry’s eye open to see his friend Sam standing with Oliver, with Ebrae already moving down toward the golden gates. The time must be close to the last groups to head in, and he stands to join the others, as they follow Ebrae’s lead to the other parties now forming up down blow.
The mighty horn sounds once more, as he now watches the might gate open slowly, and like all the other times the heavy armor guards move into place, followed by the archers, and now a hand full of mages. It was said the gates would stay open a little longer for the last group, to allow those who would be returning a chance to exit and give last-minute others to join up with the groups that were about to enter. But as he walks towards the area down by the gates, a few more adventurers head back the way he just came from, as he hears whispers of a few deaths that happened, as word has come from the survivors returning from the darkness of the gates.
Henry looks ahead to see Richard arguing with that Hayden fighter from the bar, as his group all have the best of weapons and armor. He remembers Richard not liking him at all, as his team seems to get all the breaks within the guild. Henry watches as Hayden waves off Richard now and pushes past some of the survivors to lead his team into the gates, as they are followed by a few more teams.
“ That pompous ass of a man, he is going to get his people killed. “, says Richard as Henry walks up to him with the others.
Standing not far away is Sarah and Korneel, who seem to be having words with each other too. Ebrae seeing this exchange walks over to calm the two down, while Sam and Oliver just wait for what the team will do next.
“ What’s going on Richard, why all the fighting? “
“ Oh the bastard Hayden wanted us to scout for his team, so we could flush out any creatures for them to kill, but I told him to kiss my arse. He didn’t like that answer and left. “, says Richard with a smile.
“ No, I mean with Korneel and Sarah, why are they arguing? “
“ Oh that. Well, Korneel walked in on us when we were about to have a little fun. All I am going to say he has very bad timing, he spoiled the mood and Sarah isn’t too happy he did. “, say Richard now laughing with a slap on Henry’s back.
Henry looks around as more teams look to be fighting, more about who is going, and no willingness to die for money. He now watches as more bodies are dragged from the gates, some with armor beaten up badly, and others missing parts of their limbs. The sight of that sickens some, while others quickly leave the area to return to town, as Richard now tells his group to stand ready to enter the gates.
Henry moves over to Ebrae and Oliver, followed by Sam, as everyone now turn their attention to Richard. While they watch a few more hand full of other teams enter the gates, but far more refuse to go in and continue to argue and disband from their groups.
“ Well party leader, what are we doing? “, says Korneel with a concerned look.
“ We go in as we all agreed with my friend. Are we all ready? “, says Richard now looking over his team.
Everyone nods in agreement, and they get ready to walk toward that gates.
“ WAIT!”
They all turn to see a pretty woman in mages wear, dragging a fellow by the hand behind her in a healer rob. She has jet black, straight hair almost fully covers a chiseled, lovely face. Big, round blue eyes, set high within their sockets, watch honorably over the group of adventurers. Fair skin gorgeously compliments her eyes and mouth giving pause to Richard for a moment.
“ Please wait, you're going in I see. Take us with you, our group disbanded, I didn’t come all this way to go back empty-handed. “
Richard looks them over and frowns, he never really liked mages, even good looking ones like her.
A spellsword like Oliver was pushing it for his taste, but she looked to be of pure magic. He eyes her jet black hair again, and the good kelp dress of the mages order she wears, it all spoke to him of trouble. Then the fact her face was almost to perfect like she never saw the day of a fight in her life, but that was a mage, they never let anything touch them if it could be helped.
“ Why should I let you join us? “
The mage takes out a book, and the pages quickly turn. Then a huge flame explodes on the ground in front of Richard, as a circle of flame goes around the whole group, then the circle of flames shoots up into the and vanishes from sight.
“ Bah, cheap tricks, I am not interested.”, says Richard as he turns to leave with his group.
“ Please, I have a good healer with me, he can work with yours, and it will help us stay protected. “, says the mage now push her healer forward.
Richard pauses and looks back at the pair, then shakes his head, as he knows it’s his call to take them or not. He looks to his friend Korneel, who only shrugs his shoulders and heads to the gate with Sarah and Oliver.
“ Fine, you can join us, but you have to give up twenty percent of your treasure. Agreed? “, says Richard now looking her in the eyes.
“ Make it ten and you have a deal. “
The horn sounds for the gate to close, and Richard knows a second healer is always good to have, even if he doesn’t like mages, so he agrees then asks them for their names as they enter the gates. She says her name is Crystal, and her brother Luke.
Richard gives him a closer look, as he sees Black, shoulder-length hair almost hidden under the hood of his robe, his fair-skinned face peeks out to reveal a round, shy look. He also sees glittering blue eyes, set delicately within their sockets, watches nervously around the area.
He isn’t an adventurer, that he can tell right away, his sister must have dragged him down here, and this isn’t a place for anyone to green. Richard tells them to stay close to Sam, who stays to the rear of the group.
As the gates close, they are one of fourteen that entered from a count of thirty-five. The ones that changed their minds only watch as the gates close behind Richard’s group of now eight. Not wanting to face what is waiting inside for what they feel are the unlucky few.
To be continued. ………
.
Thx again, I am debating if I will do chapter two, or just leave it. lol
its up to you . in any case I will keep on reading what you write
Thx again guys. Sorry, I missed dropping two over the weekend, but I got so busy in RL, didn't have the time to write. it's in my head just didn't write it down. I will try to do it today ok. and thx again.