As the break concluded, the group reconvened in the commander's office, where Captain Seraphia, flanked by a few high-ranking officers, prepared to outline the Temple of Arcane Echoes future plans. The room's atmosphere brimmed with a mix of anticipation and determination as the duo, Dragbaki, and Lyria, readied themselves to learn about the challenges that awaited them beyond their impending inauguration. The fate of the realm hung in the balance, and the heroes steeled themselves for the responsibilities that came with being the chosen champions against the encroaching abyssal threat.
"So here's the plan, we would conduct a mini expedition where we would have you go out and get accustomed to the areas here in the middle region. We would have you enter Faeriefall Woods for your training." Captain Seraphia said.
She then pointed to the two temple knights right beside her and said. "We would have you be accompanied by two temple knights, Sir Reynard Blackthorn and Lady Brielle Frostshield"
"Nice to meet you, please take care of us," Dragbaki said as he shook hands with the two knights.
" Please take care of me too! " Lyria said cheerfully to their new companions as she also shook their hands.
"We're also pleased to meet you." The knights said reciprocating the gestures.
"By the way, what's the difference between a knight and a guard?" Lyria asks the knights.
"Well the main difference is that we're much higher rank than a normal guard, we'd gone through tests to be a squire and finally junior knight until we've reached the rank of senior knights. Not to brag, but the difference between a guard and a knight is similar to that of a level 4 adventurer and level 8 adventurer." Sir Reynard explains to the Dragbaki and Lyria
"Ohh got it," Lyria said as she understood the explanation of the knight.
"Alright you guys would start the training tomorrow and would camp for six days in the Faeriefall woods and after that, you guys would come back for the inauguration ceremony. No need to really prepare much since you would just need to say some stuff after the king pronounces you two as heroes. Are there any questions?" Seraphia explains the general plan for the week and how the inauguration would essentially flow.
"Uhh... Captain Seraphia... I have a question. " Dragbaki asks as she raises her hand.
" Yes, what is it, Mr. Dragbaki?" Seraphia said acknowledging Dragbaki.
" where exactly are the Faeriefall woods located? We know we're in Everhaven which is the capital of Elgoria. But like how far is the woods from the city?" Dragbaki asks to the captain
"Ah yes, the woods are located to the east of the city. The forest is quite large as it surrounds a mountain called Mt. Sylvanheart Peak. Be very careful in the forest as it's infused with Fae. So we don't know how they'll react, Fae creatures can be very mischievous and dangerous. " Seraphia explains where the forest is located as she points, where the forest is on the map and the general looks of the place
"Be cautious when you're in there." She also gave a stern warning to be very careful.
Fae creatures can be mischievous and their pranks are often not harmful but they can be dangerous when people annoy them too much. Though there are some good Fae creatures such as nixies, fauns, and dryads.
"Alright, that's all for now from me I'm gonna go and let these two explain how you guys would conduct your training," Seraphia said as pointed to the two knights as she proceeded to go to her desk and sit down.
Sir Reynard Blackthorn stepped forward, his armor gleaming in the soft light of the commander's office.
"As Commander Seraphia mentioned, we'll be guiding you through the Faeriefall woods for your training. The forest is known for its enchanting beauty, but don't let that fool you. It's a place teeming with magical creatures, both mischievous and benign." Sir Reynard said.
"During your six days in the Faeriefall woods, you'll face challenges that will test your adaptability, teamwork, and ability to navigate through the Fae-infused terrain as there are quite several Fae-infused terrains here in the middle region as compared to the upper region. Expect encounters with various Fae creatures, each with its own unique traits." Lady Brielle Frostshield added
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"We'll focus on honing your skills in the natural surroundings, adapting to the unpredictability of the Fae, and ensuring you can handle potential threats. Remember, the goal is not just survival but understanding the delicate balance of the forest and its magical inhabitants." Sir Reynard continued
"What kind of challenges can we expect? Are there specific tasks we need to complete, or is it more about exploration?" Lyria, eager to embark on the upcoming adventure, asked.
"A bit of both. You'll navigate through dense foliage, decipher magical puzzles, and face simulated encounters with Fae creatures. The tasks are designed to challenge your problem-solving skills and your ability to interact with the magical essence of the woods." Lady Brielle replied
"Additionally, we'll assess your combat abilities in scenarios that mimic potential encounters with abyssal threats. It's crucial to be prepared for the unexpected, and the Faeriefall woods provide the ideal environment for such training." Sir Reynard added
"Are there any rules or guidelines we should follow while in the woods?" Dragbaki, considering the information, asked.
"Indeed. Respect the Fae and their habitat. Avoid unnecessary disturbances, and if you find yourself in a situation with a Fae creature, approach it with caution. Most Fae are mischievous, but they respond positively to those who show respect and consideration." Lady Brielle nodded
"Also," Sir Reynard added, "we'll be there to guide and intervene if necessary, but the essence of the training is for you to learn and adapt. It's about adapting to your new environment as both of you are probably well versed in the terrains of the upper region, you would have a hard time maneuvering here in the middle region as the difference between regions is quite drastic. "
With the training plan explained, the duo, along with Sir Reynard and Lady Brielle, thanked the two commanders for their time and efforts for today's discussion as they then went out of the office to finalize their preparation for tomorrow's journey and their six-day training. After finalizing their preparation the duo went to eat their dinner and during their dinner, they exchanged temporary goodbyes to their friends in the guards as they then headed back to their quarters to sleep for the night excited for their journey early in the morning...
The following early morning, Dragbaki and Lyria proceeded to the main gate where the two commanders and two knights were waiting for them. After confirming their plans once more. They bid their temporary goodbye to the two commanders and headed out via horses.
From there the group headed east for the Faeriefall woods. By the time the group arrives, it's already noon. After confirming the plan and routes the group finally entered the woods.
"The forest is divided into four zones, the first zone is where we are, the outer zone. Enemies here are mainly kobolds and goblins. The next zone would be the middle zone. Enemies there are goblins, kobolds, wolves, bugbears, and the strongest are owlbears." Lady Brielle explains.
"Further in would be the inner zone, the mountain is inside of the inner zone but the mountain itself is a whole zone as there are very strong enemies there. In the inner zone, there are many Fae creatures and large amounts of the previously mentioned creatures. The mountain itself hosts some of the most powerful Fae creatures. It said that an adult dragon is currently residing there. In the ruins in the mountain are homes to beholders, ogres, griffons, chimeras, and bulettes." Lady Brielle added as they continued deeper.
"We're heading for the middle zone, that's where we'll set up the main camp. From there we would proceed deeper." Sir Reynard said to the duo while checking their surroundings as they continued to head to the middle zone.
"Do you think we'll be able to fight today?" Lyria asks, excited to fight monsters.
"Hmm, you might since unlike here in the outer zone, the magic energy is much thicker further in so there's going to be a lot of enemies there. Be alert though you don't want to be caught off guard as the enemies are much stronger here than in a typical forest." Sir Reynard told them to do as he advised them to be alert as the strength of the monsters in the Faeriefall woods is much stronger than the typical forest because of the dense magic energy.
In the middle zone, the group reached the designated middle zone, a wide open area, and began setting up camp. Tents were pitched, a small fire was kindled, and Lady Brielle accompanied Dragbaki and Lyria to explore the surrounding areas. The lush foliage and enchanting atmosphere of the woods surrounded them.
Lady Brielle Frostshield led them to explore the areas surrounding the camp. As they ventured deeper, the vibrant hues of the foliage intensified, and the sounds of mystical creatures echoed in the background. Suddenly, rustling in the bushes caught their attention.
Eight goblins emerged, brandishing crude weapons and snarling with malicious intent. Lady Brielle signaled for Dragbaki and Lyria to take the lead.
"Show us what you've learned. This is your chance to apply your skills in a real encounter," Lady Brielle encouraged, ready to provide support if needed.
With a swift motion, Dragbaki drew both his arcane focus shortsword and a regular shortsword, the former gleaming with magical energy. As the goblins charged, he channeled his sorcerer powers, casting a Thunderwave spell to create a shockwave, knocking back several goblins and disorienting them.
Lyria, focused and determined, unleashed her Eldritch Blast. The arcane energy crackled as it shot forth, hitting the goblins with agonizing force. Her repelling blast pushed one goblin into a tree, leaving it dazed.
The goblins regrouped, but Dragbaki, displaying his dual short sword expertise, engaged them in a dazzling display of swordplay. His arcane focus shortsword danced with magical precision, while the regular shortsword struck true with each well-timed parry and counter.
Lyria continued to rain down Eldritch Blasts, her agonizing blasts weakening the goblins' resolve. With a well-aimed repelling blast, she kept them at a distance, allowing Dragbaki to maneuver strategically.
Lady Brielle observed, stepping in only to offer occasional guidance and encouragement. The duo's synergy became apparent as they seamlessly combined their abilities, showcasing the fruits of their training.
After a fierce battle, the goblins lay defeated, the enchanted forest reclaiming its tranquility. Lady Brielle applauded their efforts.
"Excellent teamwork. Your adaptability and coordination are crucial in facing the challenges that lie ahead," she praised.
The group continued to explore and returned to camp at around evening with the evening sun casting its light through the trees, Dragbaki and Lyria, though fatigued, felt a sense of accomplishment. The magical aura of the Faeriefall woods seemed to acknowledge their growth.
“Alright you did a great fight, rest here for now and we’ll explore again, I've finished setting up repelling wards so that we can keep out monsters as strong as the strongest in the middle zone out of our camp. I and Lady Brielle would go and hunt and forage for food.” Sir Reynard said as he picked up his gear and proceeded to the forest with Lady Brielle.
After the two knights went out to hunt and forage. The duo went and did their own things. Dragbaki took out the gem of illumination and asked about the situation of his mother. While Lyria took out a book she borrowed from the temple’s library. After a while the two knights came back and everyone helped in preparing their dinner after eating dinner, Dragbaki and Lyria proceeded to sleep first with the two knights standing guard for the first half of the night.