Zero

Paladin Knight

Nestled deep within the embrace of a lush, verdant jungle, the town of Eldergrove rises defiantly from the swamp, a vibrant tapestry of wood and stone. Its buildings, weathered yet resilient, stand tall beneath a canopy of twisting vines and vibrant blossoms, their walls adorned with intricate carvings that tell tales of ancient magic and forgotten lore. Irilla made her way down the portal, she glanced around the area. The air is thick with the earthy scent of damp moss and the sweet fragrance of tropical blooms, mingling with the lively sounds of bustling markets. Vendors shout cheerfully, hawking exotic fruits, handmade crafts, and glittering trinkets that catch the dappled sunlight filtering through the dense foliage above. Wooden bridges connect the town's winding paths, leading to hidden nooks filled with shadowy stalls, where merchants peddle rare herbs and mystical potions. In this enchanting yet gritty landscape, the spirit of adventure thrives, as the townsfolk navigate their way through the lively chaos, always ready for the next tale that the jungle may whisper. Irilla had been glancing around the area, looking for some help. She definitely couldn't do this alone and hunting these two down was no easy fret.

In the heart of a grand marketplace, illuminated by the soft glow of ancient runes, stands a formidable figure: a tall, muscular paladin woman, embodying the strength and valor of her order. Clad in resplendent armor that shimmers with hues of gold, blue, and silver, she leans confidently against a stone pillar, exuding an aura of unwavering determination. Her imposing presence is accentuated by a massive sword, its intricately forged blade resting effortlessly over her shoulder, hinting at countless battles fought and won. Cascading down her back, her long brown hair flows like a river of earth, beautifully contrasted by the gleaming gold and silver helmet that crowns her head. Her dark blue eyes, deep and piercing, seem to hold the wisdom of ages, reflecting both a fierce loyalty to her cause and a compassionate spirit ready to protect the innocent. In this moment of rest, she stands not just as a warrior, but as a beacon of hope in a world fraught with darkness.

Irilla taking note of this woman walks up to her, she could certainly be of some assistance, Slightly intimate by her stature she glides up to her, her height no comparison for the tall womens, "Excuse me ma'am."

The paladin glanced down a smile forming on her bright face, "Yes? What can I help with?" her voice was soft, not fitting to her brute figure and cold stature. Irilla looked up smiling, caught slightly off guard from her welcoming voice.

"I was actually looking for someone, uhm Jaylen Hayes," Irilla spoke confidently as she positioned herself upright, lifting her head.

"Oh? Do you have a picture?" The tall woman put her sword on the holder on her back as she crouched down slightly to be the height of the small elf, smiling Irilla showed the picture of the article. The woman immediately took the halotablet and held her mouth, her eyes widening. Irilla watched her tilting her head.

Tears formed in the corners of her eyes as she studied the photo, "Astral.." She softly spoke her breath finally coming back to her. Irillia blinked and she gently tapped her arm, "Oh!-" Gasping the brunette faced her, "I apologize, I Just, Haven't seen him in years-"

"The warrior who was exiled,?" Irilla raised an eyebrow as she questioned her, her hand resting on her hip.

The brunette expression softened as she felt the sorrow pull her heart down, "Yeah..." She shook her head and sighed, "I'm guessing you're looking for the blonde one?"

"Yeah, he was my friend from the academy, he was top of our class, very gifted." She rubbed the back of her neck smiling, The woman nodded and smiled.

"Of course, I will help you- Let me get some things around, wait here-" She turned to walk away as Irilla grabbed her arm, "Wait-" She spoke rather sharply.

"What's your name?" She inquired tilting her head letting go of her arm.

"Oh- right where are my manners, " She let out a soft laugh and bows ever so slightly, "I am Liah Goodwin, I am a paladin graduate from Astral Academy." Liah stood straight and folded her arms gently behind her.

Irilla nodded in recognition, "Oh you're that famous paladin that's training for the top spot, I heard you are incredible. " Her eyes glimmered in admiration, "I'm Irllia Ialdris. I Graduated this year from Astral Academy." She announced proudly.

"I will be right back, I'll go get our gear!" Liah trotted off in a direction leaving Irilla standing in her place, As Liah comes running back she As she carries an assortment of camping materials—tents, rations, and survival gear—she's not merely a warrior but a steadfast companion ready to embark on a new journey. As she strides forward, her presence commands attention, a beacon of hope and strength in a world that needs it most. Irilla turned to her a shocked expression covering her face, "wh- How was you so fast-"

Liah laughed as she guided a horse behind her, "I was already packed just had to grab it all," Irilla looked around her and wondered how much weight she was carrying and why it seemed almost effortless. "I brought my horse for you, " she gently pats the horses back, "Get on-"

"Wait, are you going to walk-?" Irilla questioned as she hopped up sitting on the horse her legs crossed. Liah just smiled up at her and started guiding the large animal, "I'll be fine-" Just how strong was she, she was just as careful as she was brute, a very delicate mix of brash and beauty.

As they entered the portal it made a woosh sound, the two girls and the horse they ended up in the winter area, Nestled within the embrace of towering snow-capped mountains lies the enchanting winter town of Hwen, a picturesque hamlet where time seems to stand still. Its charming streets are lined with sturdy stone and timber buildings, their roofs heavy with glistening blankets of snow that sparkle like diamonds in the crisp night light. The air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and spiced cider wafting from bustling market stalls, where townsfolk wrapped in vibrant woolen cloaks barter for handmade crafts, shimmering trinkets, and warm pastries. Laughter and chatter mingle with the soft crunch of snow beneath boots as families gather around roaring bonfires, their cheeks rosy from the cold. Hwen is alive with the spirit of camaraderie and festivity, a magical haven where winter's chill is met with warmth, joy, and the promise of adventure. As twilight descends, the town shimmers under a canopy of twinkling stars, each flicker reflecting the dreams and stories that dwell within this frosty wonderland. The cold of the snow hitting them as they enter, Irilla shivered as Liah went down to the stalls, she soon returned, handing the elf girl a coat and large wool blanket, "here." Liah smiled kindly, a warmth coming from her kindness.

Irilla smiled as she slung the coat on, putting the blanket around her body as well, "Thank you.." Irilla softly spoke, Liah guided the horse down the stairs and into the town. Walking around they asked the townsfolk, all they learned is that the two boys were here but left.

"Sir? Do you know where these two boys went?" Liah asked one of the market men, he glanced at the photo. And nodded.

"Ah yes those two boys were sent to save us from the wicked blizzard that the mammoth caused." He announced, shaking his head and held his arms close.

Liah almost laughed as she nodded, "Oh Astral can kill that thing in his sleep, Thank you sir-" She turned looking up at Irilla, Irilla had her head lowered and she sighed. "Are you alright?"

"Oh- Yeah..just worried about Jaylen, he was always very careless and stupid when fighting. I'm worried about him getting hurt."

Liah smiled and nodded her head, "He might just surprise you," A soft smile formed on the corners of her lips as she looked to the mountain, Irilla looked up as well and smiled, "They always do.." Liah softly spoke-

In the heart of the frost mountain, nestled in a tiny cave carved out of the side of the mountain, the two boys lay in a tranquil slumber. One, sprawled out like a starfish, embraced the cool earth with open arms, his limbs radiating warmth as if he were a guardian of the night itself. His chest rose and fell gently, a rhythmic reminder of life in this magical realm. His cat laying on his stomach purring along with his breaths, curled up in a tight ball. Beside them, his companion curled protectively around his own arm, as if seeking solace in the strength and closeness of his friend. The soft whispers of the wind danced through the cave, wrapping around them like a protective spell, while the distant call of night creatures sang a lullaby that echoed through the air. In this moment, amidst the wonders of the fantastical world around them, they were free from worries.