Chapter 33: Cragthorn Plains
Emerging from the canopy of Silvan's Embrace, the landscape underwent a stark transformation. The dense, mysterious woodland gave way to the sprawling Cragthorn Plains. Vast stretches of wild grasses reached out in every direction, their tall stalks swaying to an erratic rhythm set by the afternoon breeze. This green sea seemed endless, only interrupted by the jagged and unforgiving rocks, piercing the earth as if thrown in anger by some giant hand. Their grey, rough surfaces contrasted sharply with the soft hues of the grass, adding an element of wildness to the terrain.
The ground beneath their feet was a cunning adversary in its own right. At first glance, the wild grasses presented a facade of uniformity. Yet every so often, a step that seemed destined for solid ground would instead plunge deeper, unexpectedly shifting balance. It was a dance of confidence and caution; one moment they walked with surety, the next they could be caught off-guard, stumbling over a concealed depression. Occasionally, as if to mock their careful tread, gusts of wind would roll across the plains, parting the sea of grass momentarily. This brief window would unveil a myriad of hidden dips, sudden rises, or even the mouth of a small cave — ephemeral glimpses of the land's treacherous undulations. The plains seemed to breathe and shift with a life of their own, reinforcing the idea that here, the land itself was as much a challenge as any beast lurking within.
Elron, his eyes constantly darting from the map to their route, spoke up with an edge of caution in his voice, "Everyone, mind your steps. The Cragthorn Plains can be deceiving and treacherous." He looked up and caught Deo's eye, adding, "And it's not just the land we need to be wary of. We're on the hunting grounds of the Rumblehorn Stalkers. And there are the Grasshade Vipers, which blend seamlessly with the grass, waiting for the unsuspecting."
A ripple of unease passed through the group. Lena raised an eyebrow, "Rumblehorn Stalkers?"
Elron nodded, "Large beasts, almost indistinguishable from the boulders and rocks around when they lie in wait. They have a thick hide and horns that can pierce armour. We're in their territory now, so always stay alert."
As they continued on, Deo walked with a concentrated gaze, the melody of Nature's Symphony resonating deeply within him. The soft rustling of the wild grasses sang a gentle lullaby, punctuated by the distant cries of birds overhead. Insects, a myriad of them, played their rhythmic percussion, their hums and buzzes blending seamlessly into the overarching melody. The breeze added a harmonious background, whispering tales of distant lands and long-lost memories. This heightened sensitivity allowed him to perceive the heartbeat of the earth itself, feeling the subtle vibrations and movements around them, and unveiling a rich tapestry of life hidden within the vast plains.
Suddenly, he reached out, stopping Captain Brevin in his tracks. "Hold on," he murmured, eyes narrowed at a specific patch of grass nearby. There, amidst the wild tassels, a slight shimmer of colour betrayed the presence of a Grasshade Viper. Its sinuous form lay coiled, almost indistinguishable from the surrounding grass, as Deo activated Wildlife Insight:
Grasshade Viper
Level: 11
Tier: Uncommon.
Lifespan: Typically 20-30 years.
Diet: Carnivorous. Consumes small mammals, birds, and occasionally larger prey when the opportunity arises.
Maturity: Reaches early adulthood at 3 years. Full maturity by 5 years.
Strengths: Exceptional speed and agility, venomous bite that can incapacitate or kill most adversaries.
Weaknesses: Sensitive to extreme cold, primarily relies on stealth and surprise, which can be compromised in open terrain.
Behaviours: Solitary and highly territorial. Known to aggressively defend its lair. Uses the grass as camouflage, staying hidden until it strikes with deadly precision.
Description: The Grasshade Viper is a creature of great respect among the inhabitants of the Cragthorn Plains. Its green and brown scales blend seamlessly with the grasslands, allowing it to move silently and unnoticed. Its eyes, a piercing shade of yellow, are always on the lookout for its next meal or threat. The viper's venom is a complex blend of toxins, ensuring a swift demise to its prey. Despite its fearsome reputation, it plays a vital role in controlling the populations of smaller mammals and birds, maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
[Experience Gained: +18 XP]
"Good catch," whispered Brevin, clearly grateful. He shot Deo an appreciative glance.
With renewed caution, the group navigated around the viper's lair, ensuring a wide berth. As they moved, the rhythmic sway of the grasses, coupled with the challenge of the uneven terrain, turned their journey into a game of observation and reflexes. The sun began its ascent, and with it, an intensifying heat began to radiate from above, casting shimmering waves across the horizon and making the air heavy with warmth.
They traversed the land, moving fluidly through gullies, circumventing hidden dips and ridges. The openness of the plains, despite its beauty, served as a constant reminder of their vulnerability. Yet, the group pressed on, each member alert and watchful, relying on one another's strengths to guide them through the Cragthorn Plains. Sweat beaded on their brows, and they frequently paused to drink from their flasks, the mounting heat a relentless challenge on their journey.
As the group ventured deeper into the Cragthorn Plains, the usual backdrop of grass and jutting rocks began to subtly shift. There, nestled in a dip between jagged rock formations, was a curiously distinct environment. A wide, shallow basin spanned out before them, its borders marked by a ring of sharp-edged stones and fractured bones, their bleach-white surfaces gleaming faintly in the afternoon light.
Nestled between two tall rock outcroppings was a sort of shallow basin. The grass within this natural enclosure was trampled down, forming a circular pattern. Surrounding this was a perimeter of bones, some quite large and belonging to animals they couldn’t immediately recognize.
Inside this makeshift perimeter, the grass was different too. Rather than the wild, untamed swaths they'd been seeing, here it was flattened, trampled in circular patterns that crisscrossed in every direction, creating a tapestry of trails. At the very centre of the basin, a sizable indentation was visible, as if something massive had regularly rested there.
Captain Brevin knelt, picking up a large bone, its surface marred with deep scratches and gnaw marks. "Rumblehorn Stalker territory," he murmured, holding the bone up for the group to see.
Deo's eyes widened with realization, and he turned to survey the horizon, half-expecting to see a Rumblehorn Stalker charging toward them. But the plains remained still, the only movement being the gentle sway of the grass in the breeze.
Elron, analysing some of the tracks in detail, added, "A few of them, by the look of it. These tracks seem to be a week or two old. They’ve headed south and, curiously, haven’t returned since." He carefully measured the depth and spread of the tracks, trying to gauge the time elapsed.
"It's unusual for a Stalker to leave its territory, especially one so established," Brevin continued, his voice laced with concern. "It's possible another, larger predator drove it off, or maybe a larger pack. We should be cautious." The team exchanged wary glances. The idea of a force capable of displacing such formidable beasts was not a comforting one. Mira tightened the grip on her weapon, her eyes darting across the expanse.
Leaving the deserted lair of the Rumblehorn Stalkers behind, the group trudged forward, each step a reminder of the day's exhaustive journey. The sun, which had once blazed with midday intensity, now started its descent, casting long, wavering shadows that played tricks on the eyes. The plains, bathed in a burnt-orange hue, transformed from a landscape of potential danger to one of mesmerizing beauty.
As the wild grasses swayed in the wind, their tassels seemed to dance and shimmer, creating a kaleidoscope of moving patterns. What had offered some respite from the glaring sun during the day now hid unpredictable gullies and potential threats in the growing dimness.
Always on alert, Captain Brevin glanced back towards the direction of the stalker's lair. "We've made a good distance from the lair, but I'd prefer we camp even further away. Let's press on for another hour."
Elron, map and compass in hand, concurred. "There's a slightly raised area not too far ahead. It would give us a better vantage point."
With renewed purpose, they increased their pace, eager to find a suitable campsite before darkness fully cloaked the plains. The vast expanse of Cragthorn Plains continued to stretch out before them, but as they travelled, they spotted the low hill, offering a vantage point and some defensive advantage against any potential threats.
Reaching the base of the hill, they began their ascent. The incline wasn't too steep, and within a short time, they found themselves atop a flat summit. The view from the hill gave them a panoramic view of the plains, dotted with those jagged rocks and waves of grasses, now cast in the soft, shadowy hues of twilight.
Captain Brevin began directing the setup. "Torin, Mira, gather some rocks and create a fire pit at the centre. Elron, with me; we'll scout the perimeter."
Lena and Deo worked together, unrolling bedrolls and setting up tents. Pyro, meanwhile, took up a protective position near the edge, his eyes scanning the horizon, occasionally letting out a soft growl, sensing the wildness of the night that was about to befall them.
Once the camp was set, and a small fire crackling, the team sat down, passing around rations and refilling their water skins from a nearby stream they had crossed earlier. As the group shared stories and a sense of camaraderie filled the air, the world around them seemed to fall away, leaving them in their small bubble atop the hill.
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But then, as the last streaks of daylight vanished and the first stars appeared, a distant, ominous rumble echoed across the plains. Deo's ears perked up, his heightened senses catching the sound before anyone else. He stood abruptly, turning his gaze towards the direction of the sound, the weight of the potential danger palpable in the air.
Deo, alarmed by the distant rumble, swiftly called out, "Elron, Brevin! To the south!"
The two rangers, with their superior eyesight, quickly looked out in the direction Deo indicated. As they focused, they discerned a large group of creatures moving rapidly, their forms dark against the starlit horizon. The herd was vast and covered a significant stretch of the plains.
"They're not coming our way," Elron observed with a hint of relief.
Captain Brevin squinted, trying to identify the species from the distance. "Those look like Windhoof Antelopes. But why are they traveling in such a large group? And with such urgency?"
Elron nodded in agreement, "It's unusual for them to migrate like this, especially at this time of year. Something must've spooked them. Or... there's a change in the natural order of things."
The group shared uneasy glances. If the creatures of the plains were reacting to something, then it was yet another sign that the land itself was in upheaval. Whatever was causing these disturbances, it was growing more imperative for them to reach Embercore Hold and find some answers.
The unease in the air lingered for a moment before Torin decided to break the tension. "All the more reason to fuel up and rest well tonight. We don't know what tomorrow brings."
As they went about preparing their meal, the silence was palpable. Deo, sensing the need for a diversion, turned his gaze to Elron and Brevin. "We've been heading towards Embercore Hold, but I must confess, I'm not too familiar with it or its inhabitants. What do we know about the dwarves there?"
Captain Brevin, stirring a pot of stew, looked up thoughtfully. " The dwarves of Embercore Hold, they're renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in forging and metallurgy. We've had a couple visit our lands in search of rare materials, though that was over a decade ago. It's rare to see dwarves venture out of their kingdom, Kragnorim. They're usually incredibly passionate about their crafts, a bit eccentric, but always respectful."
Elron nodded in agreement, "Elder Elara told us tales about Embercore Hold's foundation before we left Willowdale. Rumours suggest that a dwarf explorer once stumbled upon a mysterious power source within the mountains, deciding to settle there. Over time, as the word spread, others came, and the settlement grew. Some even say that this energy source powers their entire settlement now. Not sure how accurate those are, but it's said to be quite a sight.
Lena's curiosity was piqued, "So they're explorers, in a way? Traveling far from home in search of materials?"
Elron responded, "In a manner of speaking, yes. They have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and perfection in their crafts. The ones who venture out are typically in search of something specific, a mineral or ore not found in Kragnorim. But such travellers are the exception, not the rule."
As the group finished their meal, Captain Brevin broached another important topic. "Don't forget we'll need to set up a watch tonight. These lands can be unpredictable, and it's best we stay vigilant."
Elron considered for a moment. "I'll take the first watch. It'll give me time to ponder and chart our course for tomorrow. Mira, can you take the second watch? And perhaps Torin and Deo can split the final hours before dawn."
Mira nodded, drawing her cloak tighter against the evening chill. "Sounds good to me. We'll keep the fire low to avoid drawing any unwanted attention."
Torin gave a mock salute, "You can count on us. Nothing will get past me."
The others nodded in agreement, with each understanding the importance of their duty in this unpredictable terrain. As night deepened, a cloak of darkness blanketed the plains, broken only by the soft glow of their campfire and the shimmering tapestry of stars above.
Deo was roused from his slumber by a gentle nudging. Blinking his eyes open, he found Torin standing above him.
"Your turn," Torin whispered.
"Everything quiet?" Deo inquired, stretching as he emerged from his tent.
"Uneventful," came the response as Torin ducked into his own tent.
Deo walked a short distance away from the tents, positioning himself atop a small rise that gave him a clear view of the plains. He took a deep breath and allowed Nature's Symphony to wash over him, the magical melody enhancing his senses. Now, every rustle of the grass, every distant chirp, and the whispering winds of the plains were as clear as if they were happening right beside him.
Not long after, Pyro, sensing his wakefulness, ambled over and lay down next to him, the hellhound's glowing eyes scanning the horizon with vigilance. His comforting warmth, paired with the crispness of the night air, made for a stark but harmonious contrast.
About midway through his watch, Deo's ears picked up a distinct sound that seemed out of place. A soft scraping noise, not too far from camp. Deo cautiously reached for his staff, prepared to alert the others if need be. He strained his senses, trying to pinpoint its source, and then he saw it: a faint shadow moving stealthily near the edge of their campsite. Bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight, the creature stood just beyond the edge of the camp. It was slightly larger than an average cat, with silver-blue fur that shimmered, creating a luminous outline. Its slender body was matched with a long, flowing tail, and its large, rounded ears perked with every sound, showing off the tufts of fur on their tips.
With caution, Deo began to approach, each step slow and deliberate. The creature watched him, its eyes - pools of luminescent blue - filled with an intelligence and curiosity that belied its small size. Halting a safe distance away, Deo invoked Wildlife Insight.
Wraithfox
Level: 14
Tier: Rare.
Lifespan: Typically 70-80 years.
Diet: Omnivorous. Consumes small mammals, birds, fruits, and insects.
Maturity: Reaches early adulthood at 9 months. Full maturity by 2 years.
Strengths: Elusive and swift, with a unique ability to blend into its surroundings due to its shimmering fur. Exceptional night vision and heightened senses.
Weaknesses: Delicate build, not suited for direct confrontations. Relies on stealth and evasion.
Behaviours: Typically nocturnal, preferring to hunt or forage under the cover of darkness. Known for its curious nature, it will often approach unknown objects or creatures with caution, but is incredibly skittish when sensing danger.
Description: The Wraithfox is a rare and mesmerizing creature of the wild. Slightly larger than an average cat, its silver-blue fur shimmers, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings and create a luminous outline, especially under moonlight. This elusive creature's slender form and long, flowing tail lend it a graceful agility, while its large, rounded ears, adorned with tufts of fur on their tips, twitch responsively to even the faintest sounds. While not a direct threat to humans or larger beings, its enigmatic presence and rumored ability to sense impending danger make it a creature of legend in many cultures.
[Experience Gained: +60 XP]
Hoping to make a connection, Deo then activated Fauna Communication, reaching out mentally to the Wraithfox. He felt a soft touch on the fringes of his mind, a gentle curiosity from the creature as it tried to understand his intent, an exchange that felt almost like two souls introducing themselves in a room full of quiet whispers.
Deo tried to convey his intentions, but the Wraithfox was quicker, sending a wave of unease. Through the connection, Deo sensed a strong warning from the creature: Danger south. He tried to delve deeper, to ask for more information, but the moment was disrupted. Pyro, sensing something amiss, moved closer to Deo. The sight of the hellhound's fierce, glowing eyes proved too intimidating for the elusive fox, and it swiftly vanished into the night's embrace.
Deo looked at Pyro with a mixture of gratitude and mild frustration, pondering the mystery of the fleeting message. What could be lurking to the south? And why did the fox feel the need to warn him? With these questions swirling in his mind, he settled back into a vigilant watch.
Before he knew it, the first rays of dawn began to stretch across the horizon. The camp slowly came to life, with the subdued murmur of conversations, the sound of gear being packed, and the scent of breakfast cooking over the dying embers filling the air.
Elron, having completed a quick survey of their surroundings, turned to address the group. "If everything goes according to plan, we should reach Embercore Hold before day's end. Let's remain vigilant and keep our wits about us." With a nod of acknowledgment from Captain Brevin, the two leaders took point.
The rest of the group fell in line behind them, and with a shared sense of determination, they ventured forth into the vast Cragthorn Plains once more.
The day unfurled without any notable incidents, allowing the group to make good progress. As they journeyed further, the vast plains offered a mesmerizing panorama of undulating grasses, stretching as far as the eye could see. Every now and then, the gentle sway of the grass was disrupted by sudden gusts of wind, making waves that flowed like a green sea over the land. The dance of the grasses with the wind was almost hypnotic, and the play of shadows and light created by the moving sun painted the landscape with ever-changing hues.
Birds of prey could occasionally be seen circling overhead, their keen eyes on the lookout for any potential meal that might be hiding in the grasses below. Small clusters of wildflowers added bursts of colour to the predominantly green backdrop, while insects chirped and buzzed, filling the air with a symphony of sounds that spoke of life and vitality.
However, as the hours passed, the soft earth and grasses began to give way to a more rugged terrain. The soil became more compact, and patches of grass grew sporadically, replaced by a stonier ground. Boulders and rock formations became more frequent, and the flat plains gradually transformed into a series of rising and falling landscapes. The terrain demanded more caution as the group navigated narrow passes and climbed over rock-strewn paths.
By late afternoon, the plains had almost entirely receded, replaced by a craggy terrain dominated by towering rock formations and deep crevasses. The temperature dropped slightly, a welcome change from the heat of the open plains.
Finally, as the sun began its descent, casting long shadows on the ground, the travellers arrived at an imposing sight. Nestled between two enormous rock faces stood massive stone gates. They stood several meters tall, with detailed bas-reliefs depicting scenes of dwarven history, from their legendary craftsmen at work to battles against deep-earth monsters. Interlacing these scenes, a series of intricate runic symbols pulsed with a gentle luminescence, hinting at dormant enchantments.
However, there was a stark contrast to the majestic artistry; the gates looked like they had been violently broken into. Signs of forceful entry marred their beauty with cracks, chips, and some sections missing altogether. The earth before the entrance was heavily churned, showing evidence of numerous tracks, suggesting a multitude of creatures had recently passed through.
As Deo laid eyes on the sight before him, he heard the distinctive chime and a translucent update appeared before him:
[New Location Discovered: Embercore Hold]
[XP Gained: 500 XP]
[Quest Update: Champion of the Wilds]
Quest: Champion of the Wilds
In the desolate wilds, life clings to existence, struggling to flourish amidst oppressive forces that hinder its expansion. As a guardian of growth, confront and neutralise these challenges to revitalise this troubled dominion.
Progress:
1. Defeat the Obsidian Prowler: Completed
2. Carnivorous plants have proliferated across the wilds. Discover the root cause for this proliferation and restore equilibrium to the ecosystem: Ongoing
3. Discover, unite and grow the disparate people of the wilds. Foster alliances and cooperation amongst the various inhabitants to create a thriving community, encouraging growth in numbers and harmony amongst diverse groups: Ongoing
4. Investigate the fate of Embercore Hold: Ongoing
5. ???