Lanterns of Willowbrook

Chapter 1 - The Lamplighter's Trail

Introduction

According to folklore, Willowbrook's origins are rooted in the Age of Luminescence. Historical accounts suggest that the town was established in the 7th century LC, an era defined by a pivotal revelation. Prior to this transformative discovery, existence was characterised by the reliance on plants. But not just for sustenance. The inhabitants of the lands relied on bioluminescent flora to stave off the perils of Nox.

The radiance emitted by these extraordinary plants appeared to possess a sentient quality, fending off perilous forces with their glow. In the daytime, the Willowbrook's ancestors dutifully tended to the needs of these remarkable florae, providing them with protection, nourishment, and care. In return, the flora would unveil a captivating array of colours at night, a protective shield the ancestors used against the energies awakening within the woodlands at dusk.

Centuries passed, and this agriculture of luminescence transformed the industry when a figure known as the "Lightbearer", a sage renowned for their deep connection with the flora. If it ever existed, the true name of this hero remains a mystery, but their discovery became a legacy nonetheless.

In this new era, the Lightbearer uncovered a method by which the essence of the bioluminescent flora could be extracted and infused into oils. As the utilisation of this refined oil gained further development, the once-revered flora became obsolete, gradually diminishing until it eventually vanished from the lands altogether.

This change represents a pivotal moment in history, marking the end of an era while ushering in a new chapter fueled by the legacy of the Lightbearer and the enduring spirit of innovation and progress.

Since then, a lamplighter had dutifully maintained the tradition of warding off the Nox with their Luminoil lanterns each night.

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Chapter 1

850 LC - 04:39 p.m.

A seasoned lamplighter and his apprentice set out on their daily routine two hours before dusk. With careful steps, they ascend the gravel path from Willowbrook, the soft crunch of loose stones beneath their boots accompanying their journey. 

Their task remains traditional: to prepare the lanterns for the night.

The lamplighter's hands deftly wield the flint and steel, effortlessly coaxing sparks to life within the glass enclosure. Adjusting the shutters, he ensures a robust flame, bracing for the evening's expected inclement weather. Each lantern tends to progress along the path, a flickering trail of warmth and guidance cutting through the hazy air. Willowbrook rests below, enfolded by undulating hills, its quaint cottages partially obscured by fog. In the opposite direction, where the two lamplighters are heading, is a looming forest standing watchful atop the most prominent hill, towering over the tranquil township below.

"Ah, lad, just fifty-eight to go." the lamplighter says, nodding to his young apprentice, beckoning him to the next lantern. "We're making good progress. Keep that pace steady now." He instructs, with mist appearing in each exhale into the cold air.

The trail ascends steadily, hugging the slope of the hill as the fog begins to fill the pathway. The land drops away on either side, revealing a sweeping panorama of the surrounding countryside. Though well-trodden, the path retains a sense of rugged naturalness, with loose stones and patches of grass giving it an organic, untamed feel, particularly as they ascend further. The hillside unfurls its grandeur as it climbs, revealing a breathtaking tapestry of lush valleys and distant rolling hills, imbuing the journey with awe and trepidation for any wanderer.