The gemstone was small and not breakable, but I could crush it under a significant amount of stress. The leaders urged Saffron to use it only if their lives were in danger and they needed to get out of a dangerous situation. They both acknowledged this and understood their duties.
Together, Zena and Saffron set out on their quest to find Feral Lich. They talked to anyone who might have information, from shopkeepers to travelers, and scoured every corner of the kingdom. It was a grueling and sometimes dangerous task.
Despite feeling exhausted and disheartened, Zena and Saffron pursued the lead they received from the merchant. They set out towards Broadcove Castle, hoping to find any clue that could lead them to Feral Lich.
As they approached the castle, Zena and Saffron marveled at its grandeur. The castle was massive, with eight strong, round towers that were low but set and for a great defensive line. The towers were connected by large, chunky walls made of dark green stone, and grand windows were scattered here and there around the walls in perfect symmetry. Overhanging crenellations for archers and artillery added to the castle’s formidable appearance.
The island castle is fortified by a formidable gateway, featuring thick wooden doors, a drawbridge, and an arsenal of artillery equipment. Although this entrance provides the most convenient access, the term “easy” is a relative concept in this context. The surrounding trees offer a valuable source of wood for various purposes, bolstering the castle’s defenses. Despite enduring challenging times, this castle has persevered through the ages, and it shows no signs of succumbing to the test of time soon.
“We are travelers seeking refuge for the night,” Zena said, trying to sound as convincing as possible.
The guards eyed them before allowing them entry. As they made their way through the castle grounds, Zena and Saffron couldn’t help but marvel at its grandeur. This was no ordinary castle.
They asked around for information about the angel and were directed toward the castle’s library. Inside, they found a scholar poring over an ancient tome.
“Excuse me, we were told that there was an angel here,” Saffron said.
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The scholar looked up at them, his eyes widening in surprise. “You must be mistaken,” he said. “There are no angels here.”
Saffron and Zena exchanged a worried glance. Had they been misled? They heard from several people on their way hear that a beautiful angel lived inside.
Just as they were about to leave, a woman approached them. She was tall and elegant, with long, flowing hair and piercing green eyes.
“I couldn’t help but overhear,” she said. “You’re looking for an angel?”
Zena and Saffron nodded.
“I may know something,” the woman said, gesturing for them to follow her.
She guided them to a concealed chamber located deep within the castle’s recesses. “An angel has taken up residence in the farthest back corner of the castle, alongside a group of humanoid creatures. They are rather rowdy and untidy, and their formidable size has struck fear in the hearts of all who encounter them,” she confided in hushed tones. As they passed through a courtyard, she directed their attention to a gap in the wall that they could slip through.
As they approached the narrow opening they had entered through, they heard a commotion emanating from within. It sounded like a multitude of people gathered nearby, prompting them to draw their weapons and proceed with caution. The lit, dusty corridors were traversed as they endeavored to remain as silent as possible.
As they rounded the corner, a shadowy figure caught their eye. It was Feral Lich! He appeared to be muttering to himself, oblivious to their presence. Realizing they needed to make a hasty escape, they made plans to leave the castle and return to their base. Unfortunately, as they crept forward, Zena scraped her foot against the rocky floor, alerting Feral Lich to their presence. Without hesitation, he brandished his weapon and charged toward them.
Zena and Saffron, now in their human forms, sprinted away from Feral Lich as fast as they could. Despite the sound of more adversaries emerging from behind, they could outmaneuver the towering figure. Once they reached the hole they had entered through; they leaped out and heard a resounding thud against the wall. They realized they were still in peril and that they couldn’t outrun their pursuers while in the open. In a swift move, Saffron crushed the Fire Mali gemstone in his hand, causing a blinding flash of light as he transformed into his angelic form.
Saffron scooped up Zena in his arms and took off, soaring towards their base. From above, Zena could see that Feral Lich and the other creatures had emerged from the castle and were now in hot pursuit. She felt a sense of relief and gratitude towards Saffron for his quick thinking and swift action in getting them out of harm’s way. As she gazed up at the starry night sky from the safety of Saffron’s embrace, she couldn’t help but marvel at its breathtaking beauty.