Dras was roused from his slumber, a residual echo of the recent battles resonating within him. His body ached with a familiar, muted throb, a lingering testament to the trials and combats endured. As he adjusted to consciousness, it struck him that his surroundings were not the harsh, sun-scorched expanse of the desert nor the austere, regimented layout of a military camp he had become accustomed to. Instead, he was nestled in the heart of a pulsating city, cocooned within its urban vibrancy.
Dras sat up on his bed and walked over to the window, throwing the wooden shutters open. He looked out onto a scene that was bustling with life. The city of Blad stretched out before him, a vibrant tableau nestled beside a vast, serene lake. The surface of the lake shimmered under the morning sun, the glistening water providing a captivating backdrop to the city's tableau.
The structures of Blad were a testament to the architectural prowess of its inhabitants. Buildings of sun-dried mud and chiseled stone stood tall against the azure sky, their walls adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant mosaics. The designs wove a captivating tale of the city's rich history and folklore, the geometric designs interlocking in harmonious synchronization.
The streets of Blad were alive with the rhythm of daily life. Traders, their voices filled with the promise of exotic goods, called out to the crowd, their words riding on the warm, spice-laden breeze. The laughter of children rang out from the city's nooks and crannies, their innocent mirth a refreshing contrast to the somber desolation of the desert Dras had left behind.
As he took in the bustling scene below, the distinct melody of street musicians wafted up to his window. The musicians, stationed at various corners, coaxed melodious tunes from their instruments, the notes twirling and intertwining to form the unique soundtrack of the city.
Despite the sensory overload, Dras felt a comforting sense of familiarity. He recognized the patterns on the buildings, the unique blend of spices in the air, and the melodious hum of the city. He knew, without a doubt, that he was in Blad. The city was an overwhelming symphony of sights, sounds, and smells, a stark contrast to the desolate desert landscape he had left behind.
As Dras stepped out onto the city streets, a soldier in the familiar uniform of his own squad caught his eye. The man was tall, broad-shouldered, and carried the quiet air of confidence that spoke of a seasoned warrior. He greeted Dras with a nod as he approached.
"Dras, glad to see you up and about," he said, his voice rough with fatigue.
Dras nodded in acknowledgement, his mind wrestling with the uncertainty of the fates of his squad. "Any news from the rest of the squad?" he asked, the weight of his words hanging in the air.
The soldier took a deep breath before responding, "We've been given a week's respite. The commanders think we've earned some rest before we head back to the capital."
Dras felt a wave of relief wash over him at the news, but it was quickly followed by a pang of apprehension. "And the others?" he asked, bracing himself for the answer.
The soldier's eyes darkened, his gaze dropping to the ground. "We all made it, but can't say the same for the other squads. Many didn't survive the trials."
The news hit Dras like a punch in the gut. The excitement of the bustling city seemed to fade into the background, replaced by a somber silence that echoed the soldier's words.
Just then, he noticed two familiar figures approaching them. Alia, her blonde hair catching the sunlight, and Maris, his stoic demeanor unchanged, walked up to them.
"Dras, it's good to see you," Alia said, a gentle smile on her face.
"And you, Alia," Dras replied, his voice choked with emotion. He turned to Maris, clapping him on the shoulder. "I'm glad we all made it."
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Chronicles of Dras
Fantasy**New Chapters every Wednesday and Saturday at 1pm GMT+0** Meet Dras, a young hunter living a simple life in a small village. His world is shattered when he returns from a hunt to find his village in ruins, his family gone, and a legacy he never kne...
