Atrocluxx

Chapter Three

Travelling by carriage was faster than I expected. The path was smooth at first, but got bumpier as we got nearer to the Inhiyatas’ Territory. It was on the desolate mountain of Lentis. The once even road turned into a narrow trail, making it difficult for the horses to pull us through.

The first light of the day shone through the thick leaves of the towering trees as we reached the foot of the mountain. The air was filled with the scent of earth and pines. The bulging roots of huge oak trees and thick vines hanging from their branches were signs that the mountain was as old as time itself. The steep mountain path was too much for the carriage, and we had to walk our way up to the summit.

It took us three shadows of time before we finally found their territory. The Inhiyatas’ stronghold was protected by interwoven bamboo fences, creating a robust barrier. Its gates were made of hard wood painted with the symbol of their tribe—a hawk holding an arrow.

As we drew nearer to the gates, I heard familiar whooshing sounds. I immediately dropped to the ground, narrowly avoiding the first shot. I sprang myself up and twisted my body mid—air when a series of arrows were shot—burying themselves in the ground where I had just stood.

Before I knew it, I was immediately surrounded by the enemies with their arrows all pointed at me. I tensed, one wrong move and I’d be dead on the spot. Without magic, I could only withdraw.

I scanned the surroundings to look for Piratya and found out that he was now in a small cage held by one of the warriors. It was a distraction, Piratya was their real target.

“Stop it. You're scaring the little boy,” a voice said as the gates opened and revealed the chief of the tribe. The warriors immediately dropped their hands.

The chief was a middle-aged man with long black hair that fell over his shoulders. His eyes were deep-set. A large scar slanted across his face—hinting of a vicious battle he once fought. Unlike his tribesmen, he wasn't dressed entirely in black. He wore a dark brown robe that reached his ankles and paired with black boots. Over the robe was a cloak made of thick animal fur.

“What an interesting way to welcome a visitor,” I said, facing the chief.

“That's just a little retribution for the five men you took out last time,” the chief replied.

“Retribution? It was your people who messed with me first. I was minding my business,” I retorted dryly.

“Talking outside is not very hospitable. Why don't we come inside to discuss our terms over a glass of wine?” he said, then turned to walk inside—gesturing us to follow.

Two of his men lunged toward me to grab my arms, as if to ensure I wouldn't make any sudden moves.

”Get your filthy hands off me,” I told them in a cold tone.

“Let him be,” the chief said without turning around.

As we walked deeper into the heart of their territory, I couldn't help but admire the beautiful scenery surrounding us. The houses were built atop tree trunks adorned with intricate designs, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. Bamboo ladders spiraled from the ground up to the wooden doors. For a place located in a desolate area, this was a sight to behold.

At the center of the rich vegetation was a large house—the only one that wasn't built atop of a tree. He led us inside the house, but the warriors stayed outside. I looked back to check on Piratya, but the door immediately closed as we entered. The inner structure of the house was like a natural extension of the surroundings, with all materials entirely made of wood. Sunlight filtered through the open windows. Four chairs sat in the lounge, arranged around a large table. He gestured mo to sit in one of the chairs and seated himself in another, facing me.