I think we arrived. Erika says, cautiously. The cart finally came to another halt. The cloth over the iron bars prevents a look outside, so people are reduced to basing it on how much the cart is shaking.
Could just be that we're picking up some more people. Still, it's nice when this thing stops shakin'. No way to treat a dragon, y'know. The little girl lies again. She told the whole cart about what she'd do if she turned into her "true form". Of course, she didn't have an answer as to why she hasn't done it yet.
Why do you want to call yourself a dragon? They aren't real, you know.
Nuh-uh! I'm real, so they're real. 'Sides, I read about 'em in a book.
I thought you said reading was a waste of time?
Yeah, that's why I got Egghead to read it FOR me.
Egghead?
Some geezer the family had on payroll. Or maybe they threatened to break 'is knees. Same difference.
...You had a troubled upbringing.
And you didn't? Get off your high horse, you'll break yer neck. Nobody's here because they're normal, ya know.
That one stung a bit for Erika. She always knew she was born a bit wrong, but it always hurts when it's said out loud.
Suddenly, the cloth is removed from over the bars, and a blinding light causes the whole cart to moan and recoil. Sunlight has become a most unpleasant experience for those deprived from it. Still, after the initial stinging in the eyes, it's a welcome sensation.
That reprise turns on it's head when they see the surroundings. The prisoners look to be in a massive grove, deep within the jungle. In the middle of the grove, and right in front of the prisoners, is a huge keep, so high that it can only stay upright through magic. There are walls, patrolled by some of the most intimidating guards anybody had ever seen. They all wore black plating, and the horns on their helmet cast a most threatening figure against the backdrop of the evening sun.
Everybody out! We've arrived. Don't try anything funny, or the guards are gonna give you some free ventilation! the man that was controlling the cart shouted. His breath was near-lethal, and he looked to be a man who preferred to marinate himself in wine. Fat, redfaced, and carrying a bottle around his belt.
The many crossbows on the walls, and the two VERY heavily armed and armored men in front give credence to his claim, and Erika and the little girl both get off without a fuss. For all her boasting, the little one knows to keep quiet during this situation. Unfortunately, the other people in the cart seemed to disagree. They seem to think they can get away. Some attacked the massive men on the ground, trying to topple them over and using their weight against them. Their mistake was made clear quite rapidly as the guards grab one by the head and slam it against the wall. The wall shows cracks, and the skull is reduced to mush. The other latched on to the man's back. The guard oblidged, grabbed his legs and let himself fall backwards. The weight of the massive man and his armor turns the unfortunate attacker into mush.
Others attempted to flee, but they were cut down with one bolt each. Efficient, right where the skull and neck meets. They're dead before they hit the ground.
In the end, only the characters with personalities remain. What a surprise, eh?
There's one every delivery. You two girls will behave, right?
Erika and the girl nod vigorously, Erika fighting the urge to faint. As they enter the castle, things don't get any less intimidating. Everything is just HUGE in here, the doors reach almost 3 meters, and the torches cast the hallway in a most foreboding and threatening light. The flames glitter off the black armor of the knights flanking them, the only bit of color on them, apart from the gore that one neglected to remove from his armor just yet. Eventually, they reach doors that are even bigger than the ones they saw before, stretching all the way up to the ceiling, which is already unreasonably high. Two more black knights push their massive shoulders against each door, slowly edging the massive pieces of wood forward. A true testament to their strength.
Then, they come before the ruler of the castle. A man bearing armor overlaid with furs and an emblem. The emblem shows a raven standing atop a lion's head. A disturbing sight.
The man speaks, his massive black beard concealing his mouth.So these are the newest recruits? Why were they chosen?
The fat man speaks, much more calmly and respectful than before The one here is a very powerful necromancer, but she had a magical outburst. Too dangerous to keep around the school, but not malicious enough for jail. We deemed it perfect for this place. As for the little one, she's the most capable thief in all of Ortanka.
Considering the size of that place, it aughta say something.
If she's the greatest thief, how did she get caught?
They enchanted the Jewel of Mastala as they transported it through the city. Teleported her right in here the second she touched it. She still needs a lil' experience, but she's most certainly good.
Good. Where are the other deliveries?
They tried to get away at the gate.
A shame. Although it does let me put our newest necromancer to test, I believe. Well, Starfish, you've done admirable work as always. Talk to Martinus on your way out for payment. Your code is forty-seven, password "The gorged raven".
You're very kind, Lord Bede. I expect to make another delivery in a month's time, but we both know how fickle my product income can be. This humble servant hopes to be of service again soon. The man bows, and makes his exit.
Now... You two. You will be escorted to your chambers. Attempt no escape, no matter how easy or tempting it may be. You belong to us now. Tomorrow,
we shall begin your training as Huginn agents. I expect great things of you, I hope for your sake you do not disappoint.
The two girls are tapped on the back by the massive black knights that escorted them. They are carried deep into the castle, away from the world, and into their new life.
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Topic: Web of Life: A Drider's Adventure (Ended) (Read 189979 times)