As the Iskari collapsed towards the ground Xavier rushed forward and caught her guiding her down gently instead of letting her fall. Frostclaw surged forward, a deep threatening rumble in the great cat’s chest, until he saw the human wasn’t harming Lianna. Realizing the human was helping his lady, the cat’s stance shifted, and he instead padded over to lay beside the unconscious woman.
Xavier and Ella set about making a brief resting spot while they waited for Lianna to awaken. They broke out some of the hardtack and cheese they had picked up in Verdantspire and had a brief meal. They were just finishing their food when the Iskari woman started to shift and regain her consciousness.
When Lianna fully awoke, she saw the two humans sitting nearby eating and watching her. As she sat up Xavier extended a hand with some of the travel bread.
“You should eat Lianna, we figured this was as good a time as any to rest. We can get moving once more after you are ready,” he stated simply.
The feline woman took the food gratefully though still slightly warily. Her whole perception of the two had gone through a major upheaval and she still wasn’t sure how she felt about them. Yes, she had a stronger relationship with Xavier, he could see that in his interface as could she, but at her core she still had deep-seated mistrust and hatred for humans, that now that she knew what she knew, couldn’t really extend to these two. When Xavier looked back to her, he saw in her eyes both the wariness and a small glimmer of something new, hope.
It was only a short while later they were back on the move towards Rynthavael, and the miles were eaten rapidly by the pace they could set with Lianna’s talent. Even with that speed however it was not until late afternoon that they could see the first signs of the village rising above the forest. There was more smoke than either Ella or Xavier could remember, and a sudden twinge of panic was struck in both of them. Pressing harder, they managed to increase their speed just a little more and before the setting sun had touched the horizon, they came to the small hillock overlooking the settlement.
To the relief of Xavier, the buildings were not on fire, but there was far more activity and buildings, both built and being built, than he had expected. When he had left there had only been just short of fifty individuals who called Rynthavael home. Now, from his vantage point, he was certain there were a lot more than that.
From his side Ella spoke softly. “It was not like this before we left. The air is different, heavier. There are more people down there and a sense of urgency that did not exist before.”
Xavier nodded in agreement, and the trio started down the path from the top of the hill and into the village proper. As they walked Aelriva, the sprite tied to the Syr’Vailen and in turn all of Xavier’s lands, flashed into view at Xavier’s shoulder. “Tis good ye have returned, Ard'Maelor. Yet I bear grim tidings. It seems the Kingdom of Arenvalis stirs from its slumber, growing ever more fierce toward its neighbors. Refugees have been pouring in, seeking the haven of Bramblegate and the river’s bounty from their docks. But upon finding the village in ruins, they turned their steps deep into the forest. Thy modest band of hunters and scouts have discovered them and brought them hither. Many linger still, their hearts buoyed by tales of thy deeds in Bramblegate, hopeful that ye might grant them shelter and protection in these troubled times."
Xavier managed, barely, not to react in startlement at the sprite’s sudden appearance and instead focused on her words while they walked. While it was good his village was growing, he needed people to fulfill the requirements for leveling the settlement, he had hoped to gain them in a more controlled and measured fashion. Refugees could bring all manner of issues if he remembered the news stories from back on Earth. Sighing at what could not be helped he resolved to make the most of the matter.
“How many new people do we have now Aelriva?” He queried of the small flyer, her ever changing nature still caused him a slight pause but it was becoming much more normal to him the longer he knew the diminutive sprite.
“Nearly a hundred souls have come to these lands, some journeying further down the river, seeking refuge in the south behind the protective embrace of forest and mountain, a desperate bid to escape the shadows of Arenvalis. Yet, sixty-eight have chosen to remain, their numbers comprising thirty-two humans, twelve dwarves, ten halflings, six gnomes, six Animari, and two Gan Ceann. By fortune’s grace, one among these carries the vocation of Builder, whose skilled hands have swiftly advanced the work of crafting new homes for all who now call Rynthavael their sanctuary. Thus, our fledgling community grows ever stronger with each passing day." Came her reply.
Xavier couldn’t help but notice the emphasis on vocation. It was yet another distinction he had been unaware of in Arath. Turning his gaze upon the little sprite he paused a moment. “Ok I am aware of archetypes and classes for gathering and crafting what is the importance of a vocation?”
Aleriva smiled but her voice took on the air of instructor that he had heard from her before. “Listen well Ard’Maelor, the path of a vocation is not akin to the simple art of gathering or crafting, which are but the common archetypes and subclasses of trade. A vocation is a higher calling, a mark of true mastery and dedication. To be recognized in such a way, ye must reach a personal level of 15 so as to achieve ye subclass and hone thy skills to at least that of a mid-journeyman, or level 30 in the requisite arts. Only then may ye stand before the great capitals and major cities to be certified in your chosen vocation, unlocking talents and abilities far beyond the mundane. These specialized talents are what set thee apart, allowing thy craft to blossom into something extraordinary. So, take heed: if ye desire to wield true power in thy art, strive for the path of a vocation, for therein lies the promise of greatness."
Xavier nodded as he listened, it was yet another aspect he would need to learn about when he had time but for now, he had questions about the import of a builder. “Ok so crafting archetypes and subclasses give skills and abilities to individuals kind of like my Rune Engraver gave me the ability to channel and decipher runes. Didn’t we already have a stonemason and carpenter who were building buildings however?” As he spoke, he remembered them mentioning they could build basic structures but as neither was a builder nor had blueprints they would be level 0 buildings.
"Aye, behold the fruits of our labors. Orrik and Rhett have been busily organizing and building homes and shops throughout the village, yet it is Sorin Ravenna, the certified builder, whose skilled oversight quickens our work as if touched by magic. The other carpenters and stoneworkers have taken her lead, transforming the old builder's hut into a proper workshop in but a short time. Now, cast thine eyes upon thy interface, and see for thyself: several grander buildings stand complete or nearly so, gathered around the sturdy stone edifice of Hearthstead Hall, which shall one day serve as the town hall of our burgeoning village. Meanwhile, frameworks for smaller structures rise near the forge, heralding the promise of further growth. Truly, the difference in progress under her guidance is as clear as day."
Xavier did as Aleriva suggested and his eyes unfocused allowing the tabs for the village and subsequently for the village buildings to overlay his vision. He kept them mostly transparent so he could continue walking but was amazed at the changes just a couple days had made.
Building Name
Building Quality
Building HP
Building Level
Building Material
Capacity
House 1
Above Average
300
1
Stone & Wood
1 Family
House 2
Above Average
300
1
Stone & Wood
1 Family
House 3
Well Crafted
350
1
Stone & Wood
1 Family
House 4
Above Average
300
1
Stone & Wood
1 Family
House 5
Above Average
300
1
Stone & Wood
1 Family
House 6
Superb
400
1
Stone & Wood
1 Family
House 7
Above Average
300
1
Stone & Wood
1 Family
House 8
Well Crafted
350
1
Stone & Wood
1 Family
Lodge 1
This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.
Well Crafted
600
1
Stone & Wood
Up to 30 Individuals
Lodge 2
Superb
700
1
Stone & Wood
Up to 30 Individuals
Workshop
Above Average
500
1
Stone & Wood
N/A
Tradesman’s Shop 1 (Incomplete)
Above Average
450
1
Stone & Wood
N/A
Tradesman’s Shop 2 (Incomplete)
Above Average
450
1
Stone & Wood
N/A
Tradesman’s Shop 3 (Incomplete)
Well Crafted
500
1
Stone & Wood
N/A
Tradesman’s Shop 4 (Incomplete)
Above Average
450
1
Stone & Wood
N/A
Tradesman’s Shop 5 (Incomplete)
Superb
600
1
Stone & Wood
N/A
Hearthstead Hall (Incomplete)
Well Crafted
1200
1
Quarried Stone
N/A
Great Forge
Superb
1500
1
Quarried Stone
Up to 15 Individuals
The village truly was growing in leaps and bounds, Xavier couldn’t help but remember how it was just a cluster of ruins mere weeks ago. That made him more determined to ensure that nothing would threaten his people. He closed the interface and spoke to Aleriva. “Gather together Braegor, Orrek, Rhett, this new builder Sorin, Capitan Coren, and any others you think would be able to provide insight then bring them to the Syr’Vailen. We need to discuss this threat from the north and how to stand against it.”
Aelriva bobbed in the air once and vanished, Xavier continued into the village. He paused briefly as the dark sleek form of Valkra emerged from the brushes along his path and Lianna covered her mouth in shock before rushing forward to kneel near the shadowmane cub. She gushed over the beast and even Frostclaw padded forward touching noses and chuffing with the little one. Valkra for her part, reveled in the attention though she lowered her head and eventually rolled to expose her belly to the much larger snow leopard.
The pause was not long and soon the trio were heading towards the hall once again, Valkra cradled in Lianna’s arms as the woman cooed at the purring cat. In just a few minutes they had moved deeper into the warrens and were standing on the mosaic that made up the Syr’Vailen. Lianna’s eyes were moving everywhere taking in the details and differences between this ley line nexus than the one back at Verdantspire. She had had no idea something such as this was as close as it was, she also doubted that the elders knew about it either.
It took about thirty minutes for Aelriva to notify everyone Xavier had wanted and for them to make their way to his location. Soon there was a low murmur of discussion in the chamber as other villagers had heard about the meeting and came to see what was going on. The rising threat from the north was in the back of everyone’s mind since the arrival of the refugees and now, for at least the original villagers, their Lord had returned and it seemed he was going to determine what the village was going to do in light of the situation.
“You all know why I have gathered you here. Though you don’t know the full details of what I know,” Xavier began. “This is Lianna, a Warden of Verdantspire Haven. It is a large settlement of Animari to the north and one I am hoping to build an alliance with.”
The cacophony of murmurs from the gathered villagers grew at that pronouncement though the key ones that he had called for by name merely nodded in agreement, they had long worked with Animari in Bramblegate and then in Rynthavael as well and saw no reason to not ally with a larger group of them.
“While I was away, I met with the Elders of Verdantspire and they tasked me to help rescue some of their people who had been taken by raiders, much like how I had found you in Bramblegate.” Xavier continued.
A low rumble of angry voices and shouts of rage at the raiders filled the hall at that and Xavier had to hold up his hand to get them to quiet back down. “Arenvalis won’t stop with Verdantspire, if there are already refugees seeking shelter here, they will come for them as well. I have agreed to the High Speakers request to travel into the Wildlands and find out why the change has come to be. Why they are targeting Animari in specific but also those who live on their borders. We may be deeper in the woods, but we have no real defense besides our unknown location to prevent their aggression for now. This is a threat that must be dealt with before it becomes too late.”
Several heads of the core advisors nodded to that, but it was clear there was some hesitation with others. Xavier looked to each of them in turn nodding for them to speak their minds.
Coren was the first to speak up. The retired soldier turned Capitan of the Guard’s voice was deep and measured, “we need defenses m’Lord. As you say, they do not know of us now but if they start ranging the woods it is only a matter of time.” He motioned to the builder Sorin. “With her help we can establish fortifications around the village. Walls, trenches, and towers. Ways to protect our people and at least slow attackers. I will also take those who are willing and able to start training them in martial skills. We have enough people now that a proper guard can be established. There are even those from the refugees who were guards before. By your leave I will start organizing them after this meeting.”
Xavier couldn’t disagree with his Capitan. He, after all, was the one who chose the man for the position and to doubt him now, especially, in front of all these people would undermine both of their standing. “See that it is done, work with Braegor to get what supplies you need.” With that he turned his attention to the Gan Ceann blacksmith who he had tasked with maintaining the village in his absence. “I know you want to just smith Braegor, but I need you to continue coordinating the village for a little while longer. I promise I will find someone to take the alderman position in full as soon as I can, but this cannot wait.”
Braegor, his head held under his right arm, simply tilted his head up and down in agreement. “As you wish Lord Vael, we have more smiths with the refugees and have started in earnest making tools as required for the village. We can shift the majority of those to outfitting the guards that Coren organizes with little difficulty; however, we will need more raw materials sooner rather than later.”
Xavier smiled at that, “well then, I have good news. I found a mine to the north only a two-day trek.” He pulled out his map, laying it on the floor to show them where the new resource was located. “It is not fully explored however, do not go deeper than the doors at the end of the mine. There is a stone bridge beyond the doorway, and I was attacked by spiders after crossing it. The mine seems to be safe to utilize now though. Make sure the miners have a number of guards with them there and back and they should be safe.”
The smith and guard captain saluted with a hand to their chest in acknowledgement and Xavier continued to look about the group. Amara, the same ranger who had helped him with his archery skills several days ago spoke up next. “Can we count on others for help? We are still small and barely number in the 100s counting our children. If we are attacked, even by beasts while you are away, I am not confidant in our safety.”
Again, Xavier was able to smile and reassure the people. “Verdantspire has agreed to have some of their rangers patrol the woods around our village and help to keep the beasts down along with help to handle any potential attacks.”
Lianna stepped forward at those words her demeanor tense in the crowd but still confidant in her people when she added, “The elders will have several groups roving these woods. You can expect them to start making contact within a day or two. They would not have run here the way we did.”
Once again it was Braegor and Coren who verbally acknowledged the information stating they would be watching for them and making sure they were not detained or unduly troubled when they arrived. Amara seemed relieved to hear that information as well though Xavier was sure he recognized a new interest in the woman’s eye and the potential for training opportunities for his people.
Xavier looked at his people with quiet resolve. Though wary they were united behind him. He had proven to them in the past he would do everything he could to protect and help them. Though, there were murmurs from some of the new arrivals in the crowd that they should avoid conflict and drawing attention from Arenvalis, Xavier was certain that would not be an option for long. “So we build up our defenses, arm and train our people, and seek further alliance with Verdantspire, is there anything else we might be able to do?”
Aelriva was the one to speak up at the end. "Aye, wake the next ley line. The power of earth doth restore the very defenses of Rynthavael. Ye have grown strong enough now to venture deeper into the Deeps and rekindle its ancient might. Yet mark me well: ye must first clear the first floor of the Deeps, for only then can ye descend further to where its hidden heart awaits."
As she spoke a new notification appeared in Xaviers vision as one of his quests was updated and he was really beginning to enjoy the much more detailed notifications. He pondered the change to them as he read the message.
"The path below has long been shrouded in silence, yet silence does not mean stillness. Beneath the sanctuary of your nexus mosaic, the Deeps have slumbered, untouched and unguarded for untold centuries. What has stirred in the dark during our absence? What secrets lie buried beneath the stone?"
Quest Accepted: "Drums in the Deeps I – The First Descent"
The first level of the Deeps awaits, its halls echoing with the unknown. Though you have restored the Ley Lines found upon this level, it has been long since any foot has tread the rest of these paths, and in the absence of watchful eyes, others may have claimed them. To secure the foundation of Rynthavael, you must descend into the forgotten depths, uncover what lurks within, and reclaim it for the future of your settlement.
Objective:
* Explore and reclaim the first level of the Deeps beneath Rynthavael.
* Confront whatever dangers have taken root in the darkness.
* Secure the area to ensure future expansion and stability.
Rewards:
* Access to lost resources hidden within the Deeps.
* Access to the second floor of the Deeps.
* Strengthened foundation for Rynthavael’s future growth.
* Other unknown benefits tied to your discoveries.
* +5000 Experience.
"Tread with caution, but do not falter, what sleeps beneath does not always sleep forever."
He then opened his quest log and noticed that all of the quests had undergone the same detail update. He didn’t have time to figure out what was the cause of that but instead sought out the quest he had received after waking the first two lines of elemental power.
"The veins of the Syr’Vailen slumber still, much of their power buried beneath the weight of ages. The nexus stirs, yet much remains untouched, dormant lines waiting to be woven once more into the fabric of the land. To awaken them is to breathe life anew into the heart of Rynthavael."
Quest Accepted: "Sleeping Lines – The Third Awakening"
Beneath the mosaic, the slumbering Ley Lines whisper of forgotten potential. Though some have been restored, many remain untouched, their energy sealed away by time and neglect. To strengthen the nexus and Rynthavael’s future, you must delve deeper into the Deeps, seeking out the buried threads of power and restoring their flow. Only by mastery of the Syr’Vailen can this task be undertaken.
Objective:
* Locate and restore another of the remaining dormant Ley Lines beneath Rynthavael.
* Strengthen the ambient mana flow, unlocking new potential for the settlement.
* Ensure stability in the reawakening process, unruly power may have unintended consequences.
Conditions:
* Personal Level of 15.
* Retain Mastery of the Syr’Vailen.
Rewards:
* Increased ambient mana within Rynthavael’s domain.
* New settlement capabilities.
* Enhanced wildlife presence and emergent quest opportunities.
* +1500 Experience.
"The world’s pulse is waiting to quicken once more—will you be the one to awaken it?"
Xavier thought over Aelriva’s words quietly then indicated that the meeting was over. “Thank you for the advice, everyone. Go and start on what we have discussed.” He focused on the new builder, “I trust you can protect our people Sorin? If you are not up to the task speak now.”
The builder, though not yet of sworn fealty to Rynthavael and Xavier saluted in the same manner she had seen the others do. “I will see it done Lord Vael.” Then she hurried out of the chamber, her voice already ringing through the hall as she called out for different individuals to follow her to the workshop.
After the chamber had cleared of villagers only Ella, Aelriva and Lianna remained, besides the two great cats. Xavier turned his gaze to Aelriva. “Why are they all calling me Lord Vael? And the Ley Line quest says I need to be level 15 to wake the next Ley Line. I am not strong enough for that yet. I am only level 12.”
She met his gaze, her usual mirth returning as a twinkle in her eyes. “Aye, I may have told Braegor the meanin' of the word 'Vael.' As ye well ken, it meaneth 'blade,' and now they see ye as that very blade, Ard'Maelor.” She gestures toward the soft glow of Vaeltheris. “Twas he who first coined the name, and lo, it has taken root. Ye are a Lord now, Xavier, best accept that honor, for they recognize ye as such. And as for the Ley Line, ye shall be ready when ye chance upon it. I sense much work yet to be done ere ye can reach the Earthen heart."
His gaze followed her motion to the blade, and after she said her piece, he locked eyes with her once again. “Are we alone?” He queried. She paused her ever shifting orbs closing for but a moment before she opened them and nodded. “You knew about Ella and the blade, didn’t you? Even before she told me.” He stated knowing full well she had.
Aelriva flew over to hover right before Xavier. She bowed deeply though her wings kept her steady before his face. When she met his eyes once again hers reflected the deep ancient knowledge of her position. "Aye, I knew it well. She and that blade are the very embodiment of what remains of the Sylmyrian folk. I have long discoursed with her, uncovering the truth of her nature ever since she awoke. I guard the Syr'Vailen, yet I am bound to the Ard'Maelor and the legacy of the Sylmyrians. And now, ye stand as the Ard'Maelor, the people," she said, gesturing once more toward the softly glowing blade then to the room in general, "they follow ye and shall guide ye if ye but heed their call. Trust in Ella and Vaeltheris, for within ye lies the power to become a steady, stabilizin' force for Arath."
At that moment Xavier felt the weight of fate upon his shoulders stronger than ever before. He remembered what Danu had said about fate and destiny and knew it wasn’t a completely forgone conclusion but there was too much that seemed to be lining up driving him towards some cosmic goal. He only hoped he was strong enough to survive the journey and protect those who had come to depend upon him.