16th of Frostflee, 1370
Winter had come to an end, and the first buds of spring were beginning to blossom on the trees and shrubs. The chill of winter still lingered in the air, but the gentle warmth of the sun was steadily rising, melting the snow and ice that had blanketed the land.
Ebonheim took a deep breath, savoring the crispness of the breeze, as she watched the townsfolk go about their daily tasks. Children chased each other, shrieking with laughter, while adults went about their business, their spirits lifted by the promise of new growth.
It had already been eight months since the new settlers arrived, and the town had continued to grow, both in size and prosperity. Relationships among the different groups had strengthened, and everyone had begun to blend their various cultures, creating a unique, cohesive whole.
The Akashic System displayed the current status of the major construction projects for each faction:
[Construction Quests Status]
Deep Miners of Gorgandale: The Stoneheart Chamber - 100% Complete
Ethervein Enclave: The Conduit Chamber - 100% Complete
Hrafnsteinn Exiles: Yrsta Klettur - 63% Complete
Silverguard Company: Farrador Keep - 11% Complete
Les Artisanats d'Éclair: La Salle de Mécanique - 37% Complete
She noted the progress being made on the various facilities, each of which were designed to support the growth and development of the respective factions.
The Stoneheart Chamber and The Conduit Chamber were already fully operational, having been completed thanks to the dedicated efforts of their builders. Yrsta Klettur was currently being constructed, overseen by Bjorn and his fellow Hrafnsteinn. She couldn't wait to see its completion.
The Silverguard Company's fortification, on the other hand, was progressing at a slower pace, due to the amount of materials and labor needed.
Les Artisanats d'Éclair also suffered delays. From what Ebonheim heard, the construction of the machinery required for their specialized forging processes had hit a few bumps in the road. She could only offer her condolences and encourage them to keep up the good work..
A fresh gust of wind whipped across the field, stirring her thoughts.
She stepped towards the edge of the town, near the perimeter of the forest.
One quest appeared recently, after the elders of the town gathered for their weekly council meeting, discussing various matters before the assembled crowd:
[Quest] The Verdant Pathway
[Objective] Establish a road that leads to the eastern entrance of the Eldergrove Valley
[Details] Using the 'Path of the Earthen Passage' ability, create a road that links your settlement to the eastern entrance of the valley.
[Rewards] +15 Prosperity Points, +10 Sustainability Achievements
[Progress] 0% Complete
Ebonheim sighed, remembering the time she was tasked with creating the road that led to the western entrance of the valley using her powers.
The journey had been quite eventful—she'd encountered Elmsworth, freed Aelindra from the corruption of a strange magitech device, and got to befriend Ivera who accompanied her afterward.
While the task had been tedious, Ebonheim was thankful for the opportunity to connect the village to the outside world, which led to the influx of new settlers that now called Ebonheim home.
This new quest, however, seemed like it would take longer, according to what Roderick had told her. The journey through the eastern region of the valley was more treacherous than the western part.
From what Th'maine had told her, ancient beasts, hostile spirits, and anomalies wrought from an Elemental Conflux that happened long ago existed throughout the vast area. As such, establishing a path eastward required extensive exploration and preparation...
Which led Ebonheim to her current situation.
"Almost ready, lass!" Thorsten's booming voice cut through the din of the preparations, snapping Ebonheim's attention back to the present. The Ulfhendar stood by the mules, securing the saddlebags and readying the supplies for the expedition.
Ingrid approached, her long, braided blonde hair bouncing slightly with each step. "Aye, we've loaded everything we need," the shieldmaiden said, flashing a crooked grin. "Ready to set out when you are."
Meanwhile, Lorne leaned against the side of the wagon, absently rubbing the hilt of his sword. The mercenary leader's dark, stormy eyes were focused on the road ahead, his mind seemingly elsewhere.
Urien sat on the wagon's bench, idly whittling a piece of wood with his knife, his massive frame draped in furs and chainmail.
Nearby, Serelle adjusted her goggles, testing the arcane circuitry that powered the intricate lenses. The arcanist fiddled with the straps and buckles on her gear, muttering to herself as she triple-checked the enchantments on her tools.
Lastly, Viviane inspected her mechanized crossbow, making sure the contraption was functional. The artificer's slender fingers traced over the arcane runes engraved on the steel, checking for any imperfections or defects.
The group of adventurers had assembled, ready for the expedition.
Ebonheim gazed at the gathering, a mixture of emotions swelling in her heart. On one hand, she appreciated the enthusiasm and dedication of the expedition party. But on the other hand, it would have been much more efficient if she made the journey by herself.
All that the journey really entailed was her repeatedly casting her ability to create and extend a continuous dirt road, after all.
As far as any dangers that would be present...she was a goddess! A lesser goddess, yes, but at the zenith stage of her progression, nonetheless. What kind of monster would be strong enough to stand against her power?
She had already made the journey to the grove where the yearly gathering of the Lords of the Eldergrove took place, so she had a rough idea of which paths would be easiest to traverse and what kinds of areas to avoid.
Having to account for people that she might need to protect would certainly slow the pace of the progress considerably...
Ebonheim did her best to squash the negative thoughts as she pushed her apprehensiveness aside. It had been a long while since she'd left the village, and it would be good to have the company.
"Ah, there you are, ma déesse." Evelyne's soft, melodious voice pulled Ebonheim from her thoughts, and she turned to meet the green eyes of the artificer. She held a basket out for her. "For you," the artificer said. "Some pastries and snacks for the journey. A little something to tide you over during your journey."
"Thank you, Evelyne," Ebonheim accepted the gift, taking a whiff of the aroma wafting from the assortment of treats within. "I'll be sure to enjoy them."
"Safe travels, Goddess," Evelyne said with a warm smile. "We'll be here waiting for your return."
Evelyne approached Viviane and placed a hand on the blonde girl's shoulder. "Serve her well, hmm? You represent the prestige of Les Artisanats d'Éclair while you're on this journey."
"Yes, Evelyne," Viviane gave the woman a salute and a grin.
Evelyne leaned close, and Ebonheim could barely make out what she whispered to Viviane.
"If I find out that you've caused our goddess any trouble, you will be cleaning our workshops from top to bottom for a month. Vous comprenez?"
"Oui, Madame!" Viviane gave the older woman a cheeky two-fingered salute before running to join the group of adventurers.
Ebonheim shook her head, her lips curving into an amused smile at the exchange.
Ingrid raised an arm, signaling for the group to begin the march.
The mules began to pull the wagon, and they set out on the dirt road leading away from the village, the early morning sun shining brightly overhead.
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The weather was perfect for travel. The air was crisp and cool, while the sunlight provided enough warmth without being uncomfortable. Ebonheim enjoyed the gentle breeze as it played with her hair, occasionally tickling her skin.
Urien drove the mule-drawn wagon, managing the reins expertly as he steered the vehicle along the dirt path. The big man hummed an ancient saga as he traveled, his deep bassy voice rumbling along with the creaking wheels. Thorsten joined in the humming, his baritone harmonizing with Urien's deep tenor.
The forest scenery passed by slowly, and Lorne scouted the surrounding areas, keeping watch for any threats. Serelle spent much of her time examining the various plants and fungi along the side of the road, noting the specimens she deemed useful or rare.
Viviane kept close to Ebonheim, chatting with her about various topics. The artificer explained how the Aetherframes operated and the unique magitech circuitry used in their creation. Her technical descriptions went right over Ebonheim's head, and she found herself nodding along politely.
As they reached the edge of the road that headed west, the wagon stopped, and Ebonheim strode to the front, looking eastward. She placed one palm flat on the dirt and channeled her power. A moment later, a soft amber glow emanated from the point where her palm met the soil.
The earth before them responded as if alive, the ground reshaping itself to her will.
A road unfurled through the trees, a ribbon of smooth, compacted dirt that weaved between the ancient trunks. Roots and rocks melded into the path, creating a route that respected the natural order, yet promised safe passage.
The group watched in awe, marveling at the display.
As the new pathway continued to expand, reaching further and further into the forest, Ebonheim closed her eyes and focused on maintaining the spell until it reached the limit of her control.
Thorsten let out a low whistle. "There's an art to doing things by hand," he mused. "But there's something to be said about what can be accomplished by a deity's powers."
Serelle nodded in agreement, tapping the end of her quill to her lips. "I've only witnessed the grand magics cast by an Archdruid achieve a similar feat. And even then, it required a ritual involving half a dozen druids."
Thorsten stroked his beard, his gaze fixed on the newly-formed path. "Still, no one can deny the practicality of a path being created without having to go through the toils of cutting down trees and leveling the ground."
Ebonheim inclined her head, acknowledging the compliments. "I appreciate the sentiments," she replied, allowing a sliver of a smile. "However, this was merely the first step in what will be a lengthy journey."
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Urien snapped the reins, urging the mules onward as the wagon lurched forward.
Lorne rejoined the group, riding on his horse beside the wagon, his sharp eyes scanning the surroundings as he remained vigilant.
"You know," Viviane spoke up as she entered the wagon. "Even if you're stuck making the entire path by yourself, I'm happy we get to spend some time together. You're so busy managing things in town most of the time, ma déesse. This gives us the chance to travel with you!"
Ebonheim offered a wry smile in response to the remark, recognizing that Viviane likely intended it to be comforting, despite the less-than-encouraging phrasing.
"I'll have you know," she countered with mock sternness. "I have the utmost confidence that my companions will keep me safe as we travel the expanse of the Eastern territory."
The young artificer gave her a lopsided smile and a thumbs-up, evidently oblivious to the lackluster impression Ebonheim's comment had left. "That's the spirit, ma déesse! I'm sure you have nothing to worry about."
Ebonheim didn't bother hiding the chuckle that escaped her lips, causing Viviane to tilt her head, puzzled.
"What's so funny?"
"Never mind that," Ebonheim deflected with a shake of her head. "Let's continue onwards. We have quite the way to go."
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The group lapsed into silence as they followed the earthen path through the trees. Birds sang in the canopy above, and small creatures scurried among the roots and undergrowth. Occasionally, a distant howl or screech sounded, though none were too close to cause any alarm.
The late morning sun shone high in the sky as they continued their trek, the forest providing shelter from its glare. However, the pleasant coolness of the day began to shift into a tepid warmth that made traveling feel almost muggy.
Ebonheim walked behind the wagon, taking a brief respite from crafting the road ahead.
Ingrid walked beside her, matching her pace. The shieldmaiden's features were thoughtful, her eyes alert and cautious as she scanned the surroundings.
Occasionally, Ebonheim caught her staring, but Ingrid quickly averted her gaze whenever their eyes met.
It was odd behavior, but Ebonheim didn't give it too much thought. She assumed that the warrior had something weighing on her mind but was hesitant to bring it up.
After a few more minutes of silent walking, Ebonheim decided to ask, "Is there something bothering you, Ingrid?"
Ingrid jumped at the question, blinking as if she hadn't expected Ebonheim to address her directly. "Oh, no. Not at all, Goddess," she responded, offering a strained smile.
"You seem tense. Is everything alright?" Ebonheim prodded gently. "I've noticed how you've been more withdrawn since our departure from town."
Ingrid shuffled her feet, her fingers absentmindedly tugging at the frayed edges of her cloak. "It's nothing, really..."
Ebonheim raised an eyebrow.
Ah...so that's what it is.
She had seen this kind of behavior often enough, mostly from people who struggled to express themselves. They would either remain silent or mumble incoherently, as if the words refused to take form in their mouths.
Now that she thought about it, Ingrid often talked the least during her conversations with the rest of the group, unless prompted by questions. Even when she had invited Ingrid for dinner with Hilda, the shieldmaiden had remained largely silent, preferring to listen to Hilda and Ebonheim converse over sharing stories of her own.
The only times that Ingrid had shown a more animated side of herself had been when speaking with the older Hrafnsteinn warriors like Thorsten and Bjorn, or when she needed to impart instructions in her role as the leader of her people.
The shieldmaiden fidgeted in place, her brow furrowed and a scowl on her lips. She looked as if she were trying to solve a difficult puzzle.
It would seem that being a stoic warrior had done a number on Ingrid. She must not be used to someone actually asking how she felt. Ebonheim had learned from Hilda how to coax the reluctant ones to speak their minds, so she continued probing.
"So, Ingrid," Ebonheim inquired. "How does it feel being out on this trip, leaving behind all your usual duties in town?"
The words seemed to fall out of Ingrid's mouth like water from a broken dam, tumbling out in a rush. "To be honest, Goddess, I'm a bit overwhelmed," she admitted. "All the comforts and conveniences we have in Ebonheim—they're all thanks to you, and they make life so much easier. We're used to hardship and a tougher life in Hrafnsteinn, so stepping into such an established community has taken me and the rest of us by surprise."
"I see," Ebonheim acknowledged. "It sounds like there's more to your story than just that."
"Well," Ingrid continued with a sigh. "We've always been taught to show strength and bravery, not weakness nor frailty. Talking about one's troubles and feelings is considered shameful and unbecoming of a warrior. Weakness is a burden on others, and failure is unforgivable. Those who fail to live up to expectations are exiled from our community."
She paused, seeming to contemplate her next words. "And since we've joined Ebonheim, I can't help but be reminded of the people we left behind. People who I failed to protect."
Ebonheim frowned. She could sense that there were layers upon layers to unpack here. She had long suspected as much from the few discussions she had had with Hilda, but hearing it from Ingrid solidified her hunch.
"I've always had to lead," the warrior murmured, her gaze distant, lost in memories of the past. "Be strong, always be the brave shield protecting the weak. I can't afford to falter, not even for a second."
Ebonheim wanted to interject, but she also didn't want to interrupt Ingrid. So, she kept quiet, listening intently to her words.
Ingrid kicked at a pebble on the road, sending it skittering into the forest. "But sometimes I find myself feeling unworthy," she confessed. "I look at all you've done for us, all you've given us, and I can't help but think that I haven't contributed enough."
Ebonheim paused mid-stride, turning to face the troubled shieldmaiden. "Is that why you decided to come along with the group on this expedition?"
"I can't bear to stay idle when I can provide assistance." Ingrid straightened her posture, meeting Ebonheim's gaze. "Goddess, please forgive me for not being forthright with my worries," she pleaded. "I should be grateful for all that you've done for our people, instead of focusing on my shortcomings. It is unbecoming of me to impose my burdens on you."
Ebonheim patted Ingrid reassuringly on the shoulder. "We're all part of this community, Ingrid," she began. "No one expects you to carry the weight of the world alone. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses; everyone can contribute something unique. All I ask is for you to focus on your gifts and talents, and find ways to use them to the benefit of all."
The words seemed to hit Ingrid hard, and Ebonheim saw the resolve in the shieldmaiden's eyes.
"I will," Ingrid answered. "Thank you, Goddess."
"No need to thank me," Ebonheim waved the gesture off. "Just consider yourself to be one of the many people I want to guide to success, okay? You've got nothing to prove. Just do whatever you can, and I'm sure everyone will be happy."
The shieldmaiden's lips curved in a lopsided smile. "Understood," she nodded. "I'll try."
The pair fell into a comfortable silence as they walked.
They eventually caught up to the rest of the group, and the air filled with lively banter. Serelle had regaled Viviane with stories of her studies and experiments, and Thorsten entertained Urien and Lorne with tales of his exploits in battle.
Ebonheim smiled. It was good to see the group getting along.
Hours passed as they traveled, stopping occasionally to allow Ebonheim to forge more of the road, and to take short breaks for lunch. Serelle took on the role of the cartographer, advising Ebonheim on the direction and placement of the path and also sketching maps of the landscape as they explored.
Despite Serelle's efforts, Ebonheim had already committed the general lay of the land to memory. With every additional stretch of path, the information became clearer, etching itself onto her divine awareness.
Meanwhile, Lorne ensured that the perimeter was clear, and the occasional forays into the forest yielded herbs and wild mushrooms that Serelle deemed valuable.
Thorsten and Urien took turns driving the wagon, their constant banter lightening the mood on the road.
Viviane pestered Thorsten with endless questions, wanting to know more about life in Hrafnsteinn, what hunting the giant monsters was like, and the epic battle tales that were always part of an Ulfhendar's repertoire.
At long last, the group settled by the shores of a vast lake, marking the end of the first day's travel. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the trees and foliage, they busied themselves with pitching tents and preparing food.
Later, once the campfire crackled cheerfully and a pot of stew bubbled over the flames, the group sat around the fire, enjoying their meal.
"These herbs are excellent!" Serelle complimented as she popped another spoonful of broth and meat into her mouth.
Viviane nodded enthusiastically, slurping down her portion of stew. "Mmmm, it's delicious!"
Thorsten chuckled, his booming laugh echoing through the clearing. "You can thank Lorne for those," he grinned.
The Silverguard captain wore a slight smirk as he scooped up a spoonful of soup. "It's nothing special, just common herbs found within the valley's forest."
"I don't know about that, Commander," Urien added. "To me, this is a welcome change from the dried rations I'm used to eating on the battlefield."
Lorne shrugged. "I just pay attention to things around me," he insisted.
"Which is exactly why you make a good addition to the team," Ebonheim noted, taking a sip of stew.
She was sitting cross-legged near the campfire, and the dancing flames cast a warm orange hue over her face. The taste of the simple yet flavorful meal brought a smile to her lips.
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As twilight deepened, the night insects began their chorus, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of damp soil and leaves.
Ebonheim, sitting on a fallen log, watched as stars glimmered in the sky, reflected in the lake's rippling surface.
They were already beyond the border of her divine domain, and she had already felt her powers weaken. Still, she was certain that she was powerful enough to ensure their safety from anything they'd encounter along the way. Even though she had every bit of confidence in their ability to fight as a capable group, Ebonheim still couldn't help but be wary.
The Eldergrove was home to many powerful magical beasts, and the few that she had encountered in the past were strong enough to easily match—no, they were stronger—than Thorsten. The winter wolf that he had fought two years ago was average by Eldergrove standards.
Hopefully her presence would be enough to ward away most predators.
The other members of the party lounged nearby, relaxing after the long day of travel. Serelle had fallen asleep in her bedroll, her spectacles askew and her journal of sketches open beside her. Urien and Thorsten played a game of cards, betting over the contents of their backpacks as the two men joked and laughed.
Lorne tended to the horses and mules, feeding and brushing them, murmuring quietly to the beasts as he checked their hooves and tack. Viviane sprawled out on a large boulder, humming a tune as she toyed with a handful of gears and cogs. Ingrid sat against a tree, quietly sharpening her blade, her eyes flitting toward the edge of the forest every now and then.
Ebonheim stood, stretching her limbs as she inhaled deeply, savoring the sweet freshness of the air. She gazed wistfully at the calm waters of the lake, tempted by the notion of swimming in its cool depths.
The lake by her town was nice and clear, but this one was different. The water was a rich, deep blue, so dark that it almost appeared black in the starlight. And while she knew there might be strange creatures lurking within its murky depths, the lake was vast enough that the possibility of encountering any of them was slim.
Besides, she was a goddess. She could handle a little danger.
She glanced at the group, pondering whether she should leave them for a short while to go for a quick dip.
"You go for a swim, lass," Thorsten said, giving her a knowing grin. "We'll keep watch here."
Ebonheim gave him a grateful nod before heading towards the lake.
After finding a secluded spot, she slipped out of her dress and let the fabric pool at her feet, revealing her slender, olive-skinned body. The cool night air caressed her bare skin, and she relished the sensation.
She stretched languidly, closing her eyes and savoring the moment. Then, she walked into the lake, goosebumps breaking out across her skin as the cool water lapped at her ankles. The deeper she went, the cooler the water became, but the chill invigorated her.
The night was silent save for the occasional splash of water as she moved through the lake. When she was in waist-deep water, Ebonheim took a moment to dunk herself fully underwater, immersing her face in the cool depths. Her iridescent silver hair billowed around her like a halo, glowing faintly in the darkness, and her skin tingled in the frigid depths.
She came up for air, taking a deep breath. Then, she began to swim, her movements smooth and graceful. The act of moving through the water was refreshing, and the repetitive motions allowed her mind to wander freely.
The journey thus far had been an enjoyable experience. The company of her friends was a pleasant distraction from what would have been a quiet and lonely journey otherwise. She probably would have asked Ivera to tag along if no one else had volunteered to go.
Ebonheim let herself sink, her hair floating around her like a cloud of liquid mercury as she descended into the inky depths. She swam downward, reveling in the sensation of weightlessness.
Her eyes glowed as her Divine Sight pierced through the darkness, and she gazed at the fish and other aquatic creatures that darted through the shadows. She observed them idly, noticing the details of their sleek, scaled forms as they flashed past her vision.
When she grew bored of watching the fauna, she kicked herself back up to the surface, emerging with a gasp. She wiped her eyes, sweeping her hair back with a flick of her hand, and glanced at the shoreline, where the flickering lights of the campfire flickered through the trees.
She had swam quite far out into the lake, and the shore seemed rather far away now. The moonlight reflected off the dark waters, making them shimmer like liquid silver, and the night air was chilly on her wet skin.
As she treaded the waters, she saw the light from the campfire flicker erratically, as if a breeze had disturbed the flames. An instant later, a darkness deeper than the night enveloped the campsite, snuffing out the light and plunging the area into inky blackness.
Ebonheim's breath caught in her throat. What in the world is that?!
Alarm flashed through her mind as her Divine Sight penetrated the unnatural gloom.
The outlines of several shadowy shapes materialized in her field of view and approached the camp, stalking forward on soundless paws. They were larger and darker than ordinary wolves, and their forms wavered and shifted in the darkness like smoke.
Her eyes widened as she realized what was happening.
Instinctively, Ebonheim dove towards the shore, swimming faster than she had ever swum before. The cold water streamed past her body, numbing her limbs, but she pushed on, her mind focused on only one thing—reaching the camp and helping her friends.
But as she swam, she felt something coil around her ankle, constricting tightly. She jerked to a stop, and her head plunged underwater as her leg was yanked down by the force of whatever had caught her.