Chapter 15: Journey to Darlor

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As the morning sun bathed the land with a soft, golden light, it cast long, reaching shadows. This marked the beginning of a new day and the start of a new journey for Dras and his squad. With mixed feelings of trepidation and determination, they left Blad, the city that had been their temporary refuge.

Their route took them down the wide, winding river, a lifeline that carved its way through the landscape. Their destination was the charming city of Lorindale, nestled where the river met the sea in a beautiful estuary. This place was a hub for trading ships and fishermen alike, and it was here that the squad would board a larger vessel. This ship would carry them across the vast, unpredictable sea to reach the embattled lands of Darlor.

The journey down the river was smooth, the water's surface remaining calm and tranquil. The river itself seemed to recognize their important mission, offering them a serene passage. Birds sang from the banks, their melodies providing a soft accompaniment to the gentle lapping of water against the boat. The river mirrored the clear blue sky above, its edges adorned with flowering lilies and fringed by weeping willows. For a while, the harsh realities of their mission seemed a world away.

By the time Lorindale's silhouette appeared on the horizon, the morning had given way to a sunny afternoon. The city, situated at the estuary, was a hive of activity. Traders shouted over each other in the cobblestone streets, and the air buzzed with the vibrancy of life in a bustling port city.

However, upon their arrival, they were informed of a delay. Their ship, it seemed, was not quite ready to sail. Despite the pressing nature of their mission, this unexpected pause gave the squad a few hours of freedom. The prospect of exploring the lively city, even if only for a short while, offered a welcome distraction from the looming task ahead.

Lorindale was a city bursting with life and vibrancy. Its thriving streets were populated by citizens of various trades, from blacksmiths hammering away at their forges, to artisans meticulously crafting their delicate wares. The hum of lively chatter and the rhythmic melody of city life echoed through the air.

The architecture of Lorindale was unique, a testament to the Bartex Vico era. Buildings with high-peaked roofs and ornate gables towered above cobblestone streets. The facades were a colorful mix of brick, stone, and wood, adorned with intricate carvings and adorned with vibrant hanging flower baskets. The city was divided by a network of canals, their calm waters reflecting the beauty of the cityscape. Stone bridges arched over these waterways, connecting different parts of the city.

Amidst this lively atmosphere, Dras and his squad found themselves drawn into the city's vibrant heart. They meandered through bustling marketplaces, their senses assailed by the rich array of goods on display. Spices, textiles, and trinkets from distant lands were heaped on stalls, their owners extolling their virtues to passersby.

Near the harbor, the smell of saltwater mingled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling meats from street vendors. They sampled a variety of local delicacies, their flavors a welcome surprise to their palates.

As the afternoon gave way to dusk, they returned to the port. Their ship, a robust vessel designed to withstand the sea's temperament, was now ready to embark. They climbed aboard, their hearts filled with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension.

With the city of Lorindale receding in their wake, they set sail. The journey across the vast sea of Tír was about to begin. The camaraderie amongst the squad was palpable, their collective resolve unyielding. As the city lights faded into the distance, they looked ahead, ready to face whatever lay ahead on the shores of Darlor.

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Their voyage across the sea of Tír was marked by the rhythmic lull of the ship against the waves, the sharp tang of the sea air, and the seemingly endless expanse of water stretching out in all directions. Occasionally, islands would come into view, their green foliage a stark contrast to the blue of the ocean. The crew remained busy, ensuring the ship stayed on course and properly maintained. When night fell, the sky filled with a blanket of stars, their twinkling lights reflected in the water below.

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