Heading northwest on the winding Imperial road from Illuminara City to Glisterven Town. The air grows colder as they near the Velorian border, making her grateful for the thick cloak her mother made her.

Upon arrival at the Northern Glisterven Patrol Outpost, she meets the outpost vice seer, Veteran Deron Farr, who greets her with a brief nod. His gaze, with burrowed knot in his brows is critical as he examines the uniforms.

“…these are crafted especially for the northern patrol, Sergeant,” she explains. “… they’re made from a versatile fabric that provides warmth against cold winds yet remains breathable for milder days.”

He replied “Sorry ma’am , I’m just a veteran. Sergeant’s in his office affixing his sigil for these orders. Thank you for thinking, anyways,” to which Serriah releases an awkward smile, clasping her palms tight.

Deron’s approval is evident as he nods. “Good work, ma’am. We’ll be needing more like this. Please extend my thanks to your family.”

As her supplies are unloaded, the business is concluded, Serriah mounts her horse again, feeling a quiet pride. There’s a growing warm feeling inside her chest for a job well done.

The sun dips low over the rooftops, casting warm, faint golden light across Glistenven Square Market. Serriah wanders through the bustling stalls, taking in the scents of spiced meats and fresh bread, the chatter of haggling customers, and the calls of merchants advertising their wares. She’s just finished resting after her earlier visit to the Patrol Outpost, and her curiosity draws her further into the heart of the market.

Near the far end of the square, a scene catches her attention. An elderly woman, her back hunched from years of labor, draped with a woven brownish, mottled green shawl, stands behind a modest stall displaying handwoven shawls and intricate wooden carvings. Her work is fine, and her prices are fair, but a sly, fast-talking man in garish clothes stands in front of her, waving his hands with exaggerated gestures.

The charlatan looks over the items with a sneer. “These are barely worth half of what you’re asking, old woman,” he says, tossing a coin in his hand. “I’ll take the whole lot for… let’s say a quarter of your price. Fair deal, yes?...”

The elderly woman stammers, uncertain and flustered. “But… but these took me weeks to make, sir. They’re worth far more than…”

The man interrupts her with a scoff. “Do you think anyone else is going to buy this?” He casts a sideways glance at the crowd, playing to their indifference. “You should be grateful I’m offering anything at all…”

Serriah’s eyes narrow. She steps forward, positioning herself beside the elderly woman, her presence radiating confidence.

“Ehermmmm…. Excuse me,” Serriah interjects, her voice calm but firm. “I couldn’t help but notice your attempt to undervalue her work. A quarter of her asking price is an insult to her fine pieces of work!”

The man smirks, clearly amused. “And who are you to tell me how to conduct business, woman?”

Serriah meets his gaze, her eyes steady yet showing a sweet smile. “A patron who knows quality craft when she sees it.” She picks up one of the woman’s shawls, running her fingers over the intricate stitching. “This is fine work. It deserves a fair price.”

The charlatan laughs, dismissing her with a quick wave of his hand. “If you think it’s worth so much, then why don’t you pay for it.

Serriah smiles coolly. “I think I’ll just… just do that.” She raises her voice, drawing the attention of nearby shoppers. “Everyone! Look here… This woman’s work is truly exquisite. I think you’ll find her prices more than fair for the craftsmanship.”

The man’s smirk slowly faded as the crowd grows curious, a few approaching to examine the elderly woman’s goods. With Serriah’s charms, the stall quickly gathers attention, and soon, several buyers are offering the woman her full asking price, and more.

The charlatan, realizing his scheme has backfired, glares at Serriah before slinking away. Serriah raises her right brow and mocks the charlatan before she turns to the elderly woman, who looks at her with gratitude shining in her eyes.

“Thank you, miss,” the woman says softly. “I don’t know what I would have done if you hadn’t stepped in. May I know your name?”

Serriah smiles. “Serriah, ma’am Serriah Lutt… It’s nothing, really. People like him prey on good folks like you. I was just glad I could help.”

As Serriah steps out of the stall, the old woman tugged her by the wrist. She can feel the woman’s callouses as she held her leathery hand, worn by years of weaving her products.

“This looks good on you, Miss Serriah…,” the old woman said as she shyly offers Serriah a crimson shawl with thin pink lines that intersect, forming squares on the fabric.

You’ve still got good eyes, ma’am,” Serriah flutters the old woman, “No wonder your shawls are beautiful. How much for this dandy?”

“No, miss,” Says the old woman, her voice crackling as if she’s to let a cry, “…ever since my grandson died, this is the first time that someone stood for me.”

Serriah’s heart melted, yet… she was eager to pay the item but the old woman softly clasped the crimson shawl into her hands with her apologetic eyes like those of a kitten.

“Thank you so much, for this wonderful gift, ma’am…”, She had no choice but to accept or it will hurt the old woman’s feelings.

As Serriah walks away, she notices that her small act of kindness has not gone unnoticed. A few vendors nod respectfully as she passes, and she can’t help but feel a quiet sense of pride.

After a long day of travel, Serriah finds respite in a cozy inn at Glistenvale. The warm glow of the hearth casts flickering shadows on the wooden walls, and the smell of hearty stew fills the air. As she settles into a corner table with a steaming bowl, she reflects on her day—the satisfaction she felt when she stood up for the elderly woman against the charlatan lingers in her mind, her fingers running thru the soft, warm fabric of the shawl.

Memories from her own childhood surface, moments when she had been bullied, going home with her beautifully crafted blouse splattered with food sauce or mud, pigtails messed due to the pulling of her bullies, small and powerless as others took advantage of her vulnerability. Now, helping those who are vulnerable ignites a flicker of strength within her, as if she’s reclaiming the lost pieces of her past. She remembers the thrill of seeing a bully put in their place, and it makes her heart swell with purpose.

As she gazes into the fire, Serriah thinks of the littlefolk, those often overlooked and marginalized in society. She recognizes their struggles; perhaps she sees a bit of herself in their plight. They deserve someone to advocate for them, to stand firm against those who exploit their kindness.

With a determined smile, Serriah resolves to embark on a journey around the realm. She imagines traveling from village to village, using her skills not just as a craftsman, but as a charmer, and advocate for those in need. The thought fills her with excitement and a sense of duty. She knows that she can help empower others, even if it’s just small act, she is sure it will mean big to the people she can help. She knows.

At the Explorer base, Scout Tamsin Brookfold guided Arch through the entrance of the Explorer’s Head Office compound, nestled deep within a forest spanning nearly twenty oakspans in all sides. Arch’seyes widened as he realized how the head office is really concealed.

“At the heart of this forest,” Tamsin explained, gesturing to the land surrounding them, “lies our compound, occupying about seven oakspans in all directions. The previous explorers made sure it’s shielded from anyone who isn’t supposed to be here.”

Arch noticed subtle shifts in the air, a faint ripple just at the edge of his vision. “My eyes is toying with me?” he asked, marveling at the sight.

“Not really,” Tamsin replied. “These veils in the aether block unintended visitors. Anyone not meant to be here, whether hunters, fellers, or wanderers, will just find themselves back where they started. No one ventures here willingly—the forest itself seems haunted to the outside world, with tales of eerie mist and endless paths. And honestly…”, Tamsin added with a sly smile, “who do you think started those stories?”

Arch chuckled, appreciating the ingenuity and subtlety of the protection. “And the animals, right?”

“Only those we’ve permitted can enter… Explorers and our trained animals. Even if they approach from higher ground, like the lands of Grimgor or Veloria, or if the Military Aether Force try to survey from above, all they’d see is a dense, dark forest. We’ve cast a veil over the whole place, so we’re invisible from every angle.”

Continuing, Tamsin led Arch to the Slab. “This is where Gaius conducts his research. It’s one of the most guarded parts of the compound.” She pointed out the stables and the birdiery next, explaining how each played a role in the unit’s work. The stables held the sturdy horses trained for intelligence and endurance, while the birdiery housed the unit’s birds.

Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

As they made their way through the head office’s main building, Tamsin showed Arch the resting quarters, detailing the essentials and communal spaces, the offices and meeting hall,. “The transport system you used to enter here is inspired by the Continental Wagon Way in the Starhaven continent. Ours links to hidden exit points surrounding the compound, for quick escapes or discreet returns from missions. Not all explorers have military background and can’t just enter the Imperial Military Complex, you know.”

Arch was awed. This place was more than just a base, it’s a self-contained, hidden world, crafted to protect the secrets and missions of the Explorer Unit.

After Tamsin’s tour, Arch met with Lyt for his next phase of training. Lyt’s expression was serious but encouraging as he began sharing the knowledge that had kept him alive on countless missions.

“First,” Lyt said, pointing toward the horizon, “navigation. In case you’re ever without a mana navigator, the stars are your fallback. Learn the constellations, they’ll guide you north, south, east, and west, no matter where you find yourself. But since you were in the military, I’m sure I won’t need to stay on this subject.”

They moved into the forest, where Lyt began his lesson on blending into surroundings. “During reconnaissance and scouting, invisibility isn’t just about hiding; it’s about becoming part of the scene. If you’re trained to think like a dispatch, now, think like a criminal who needs to hide and escape. That’s the trick. In serious situations, you’re caught. You gone…”

He demonstrated how to identify and follow trails that animals or enemies might leave, and showed how to use their dark blue garments. “This shade is the key. It helps us blend, especially at night, keeping us unseen even if an enemy glances our way. But staying still is the art.”

Lyt explained the codewords that explorers used to contact members of the civilian intelligence network scattered throughout the region. “We have allies across the empire, hidden in plain sight. These codewords are the bridge.”

They arrived at the birdiery, where a flock of trained ravens cawed. “Our ravens are invaluable for communication,” Lyt explained. “They can report mission progress and, when needed, deliver urgent messages back here.” He showed Arch the unique whistle each raven responded to, a pitch distinct to every bird. “Like us, they need practice to keep sharp,” Lyt added, releasing a raven to fly a circuit overhead. “And, of course, we use a bit of magic to speed their training and sense mana locations. These birds are mana sensitive…, we train them to identify mana signatures which enables them to locate places, which they will fly to when told.”

Lyt led Arch through the stables, gesturing at the horses as he began, “We breed, train, and keep our horses here… though these aren’t just any horses.”

He pointed out a few of the Drakesteeds grazing peacefully, explaining, “In the early days of the unit, the first steeds we used were called Wyvermanes, a breed we smuggled out of Wyrmwood Keep from Valoria. Our first steed trainer managed to sneak a pair off the continent…, a daring feat, really. Wyvermanes had unmatched loyalty and endurance, but their size and temperament made them hard to keep incognito. Plus, they were tricky to train. Over time, we bred them with other horses, trying to create the perfect balance, and now we have these Drakesteeds.”

Arch squinted, observing the horses skeptically. “They just look like regular horses to me.”

Lyt chuckled, nodding. “Yeah, that’s the whole point! Drakesteeds look ordinary, inside, have bigger lungs and more robust muscles. They kept their ancestors’ loyalty and endurance. They might not be the fastest, but they can run at top speed for far longer than most breeds. And they’re sharper too—they’ll never leave you in the field.”

“These horses are also fed a specific kind of grass we grow here, enchanted to maintain their unique traits. One of these saved my life once.” Lyt’s voice softened, a memory flashing in his eyes. “… when I was ambushed, I lost a lot of blood, and fainted while riding. But Missy… my Drakesteed—didn’t stop. She ran for two days straight, only breaking to drink from streams. I woke up with Tamsen tending my wounds, and Missy was right out the window waiting… waiting.”

Arch nodded, understanding now. “Seems like these horses are as much a part of the unit as the people.”

“Yep,” Lyt agreed with a smile, giving Missy an affectionate pat. “They’re part of the team…”

The following day, Arch joined Jarek in the Slab, eager to learn about the tools that would aid them in their missions.

“Today, we’re diving into some of our most important gear,” Jarek announced with a grin. He gestured toward a collection of devices lined up on a long table. “Let’s start with Embermist, which I believe doesn’t need details. Very handy.”, To which Arch replied unenthusiastically, “Yeah…”

“Next,” Jarek picked up a small, compact device with white and orange crystals embedded within. “This one is called Brightshade. Confusing, right?” he joked, eliciting a chuckle from Arch. “It’s created from crystals compacted together. When twisted, the manaflow inside absorbs their properties and then, boom! It explodes after a short time, creating a blinding flash and a loud noise that can disorient anyone caught in the area, about ten staff lengths wide.”

He paused dramatically, as if building suspense, then added, “We’re currently developing a smaller version for close combat situations.” With a flourish, Jarek opened the testing hall door. Just then, “boom”, a loud bang erupted from within, causing both of them to duck instinctively.

“Ahhhhhh! My eyes! I can’t see a thing!!!” came the panicked shout of Thadeus, shrieking from inside.

“Close the door, Jarek! He may wander off!” Gaius shouted, urgency can be traced from his voice.

Jarek sheepishly complied, pulling the door shut. “As I said, we’re still developing,” he said, awkwardly trying to keep a straight face, but failing miserably. “Maybe just a few kinks to work out.” Arch awkwardly responded, “All right…” At the back if his head, he makes a mental note not cross Gaius’ path nor be too friendly with him.

“Next up,” Jarek said, regaining his composure, “we have the Mystlens. These special tinted goggles that enable the wearer to aethergaze, allowing you to see mana esssence in your surroundings. Very effective for trailing magic residue. They’re also useful for spotting figures drawn by the Manaquill, a chalk we use to mark meeting, hiding, and safe spots during a mission,” handing Arch one.

Jarek leaned closer, his expression growing serious. “We’re developing a new version of this Manaquill since we’ve learned that people with a natural talent for aethergazing can see these marks, especially if they look intently. That poses a potential threat if they understand what they mean. We’ve even recruited someone with this talent. He often travels to the far ends of the realm to detect any significant mana shifts in the continent’s aether. Of course, we don’t know where he is now,” he added with a wink, “but I’m sure he’s off solving the mysteries of the universe or something equally grand.”

Arch nodded, captivated by the possibilities of each tool. Jarek continued to demonstrate other gadgets used by the unit, each with its own unique purpose and clever design.

For his last training session, Arch stood before Thadeus, who would personally assess his martial and weapon skills. Thadeus, a seasoned explorer with a reputation for his tactical mindset and strategic combat skills, wore a serious expression that spoke of the importance of the day’s training.

“Remember,” Thadeus began, pacing slightly, flicking about knives in both hands, “explorers don’t face enemies head-on like military units. If the situation permits, always evade. If you must strike, ensure the enemy is knocked out, not killed. The responding dispatch units will do the ‘clean up’ for you. Fatal blows are a last resort.”

Arch reflected on his time as a Dispatch Commander, recalling instances where his unit arrived on the scene to find aggressors unconscious or bound. “Those were the work of explorers?!” he blurted out, a surprise in his tone.

Thadeus sheepishly grinned, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. “Oh, sorry! I forgot you were a Dispatch Commander. I hope it doesn’t offend you!” He laughed, the sound echoing through the training grounds.

“It’s all right. It actually makes our work easier,” Arch replied, “By the way, are your eyes good for today’s training?”

“Don’t worry about it,” Thadeus assured him, waving a hand dismissively. “Gaius never works without a plan. Besides, I’m used to it by now.”

“Just how many experiments have you endured?” Arch asked, raising an eyebrow with curiosity.

“Ah, no worries! You’ll have your own soon enough,” Thadeus said with a wink, sending a chill down Arch's spine. “I now understand why you always want to be on a mission,” Arch replied, shaking his head with mock horror.

They began their training with a series of warm-up exercises, Thadeus demonstrating various stances and movements. “First, let’s work on your hand-to-hand combat,” he said, moving into a defensive position. “In close quarters, it’s all about leverage and quick movements. Use your opponent’s momentum against them.”

Then, he demonstrated a swift takedown, smoothly flipping an imaginary opponent to the ground. “You see? It’s all about balance and timing. Try it on me,” he said, motioning for Arch to approach.

With a nod, Arch moved in, practicing the technique. Thadeus guided him, correcting his posture and encouraging him to be fluid in his movements. “Good! Now remember to stay light on your feet,” he instructed. “Explorers must always be ready to move, to escape if needed.”

As the training continued, Thadeus shifted focus to using the environment to Arch’s advantage. “You can use walls, trees, or even the ground itself,” he explained, demonstrating how to use a wall for cover. “If you’re cornered, look for anything you can use to shield yourself or create an escape route.”

They moved to an area filled with obstacles where Thadeus showed Arch how to navigate through tight spaces. “Practice evasion,” he said, moving like a shadow as he ducked and weaved around the training dummies. “If you’re spotted, the goal is to slip away without being caught. The dark blue garments we wear help us blend in... Use that to your advantage...”

“You’re a natural at this, do you often often play Patrol and Thieves when you were young?” Thadeus praised with a little bit of sarcasm in his tone, nodding approvingly.

“Nope! Just trained a lot and harder than anyone to please my father!” Arch grunted while he jumped on Thadeus from behind.

Then, Thadeus focused on stealthy attacks. “Stealth is not just about being quiet; it’s about timing and precision,” he emphasized. “When you strike, do so from the shadows or behind cover.” He demonstrated a swift, silent approach, finishing with a controlled but decisive move that would incapacitate an opponent without leaving a mark.

“Now, let’s put it all together,” Thadeus said, his eyes gleaming with excitement. “Imagine a scenario…You’re on a mission, and you spot an enemy ahead. You need to evade detection, get close, and incapacitate them without raising the alarm.”

Arch practiced, moving cautiously through the makeshift environment, using cover effectively. Thadeus watched, offering tips and encouragement.

As the session wrapped up, Arch felt a growing satisfaction in, a warm feeling which often evaded him after a day’s work. In the past, he’s just glad it’s over.