Chronicles of Elyria

Chapter 3: Guild Life

The sun had barely risen when Lyrien found himself standing outside the gates of Vigilant's Hold, packed and ready for his first mission. His sword hung by his side, its weight familiar now, though it carried a different significance. This time, it wasn't for training—this time, he would use it in the real world. Arin had spoken briefly about the task ahead but had promised to reveal more once the group had gathered. Lyrien's mind buzzed with anticipation as he awaited his comrades.

In the early morning mist, a figure appeared—Kael, his usual swagger in place, followed by Lila, who shot Lyrien a welcoming smile. "Ready for this, hero?" Kael asked, grinning as he checked his own gear. "First real mission, huh?"

Lyrien nodded, his nerves tempered by excitement. "More ready than ever."

Kael gave a mock salute before he added, "Good. Just try not to die, alright? Makes it awkward for the rest of us."

Lila elbowed him in the ribs. "Don't listen to him. You'll do great."

Moments later, Arin appeared from the shadows, as if materializing from the mist itself. His presence commanded immediate attention, and even Kael straightened up. With him were a few others—veteran Vigilants, Lyrien assumed, based on their confident bearing and worn armor.

"Alright," Arin began, his voice low but clear, "listen up. This mission is no simple scouting trip. There have been reports of unusual activity near Shadowfen—dark forces gathering, strange occurrences, and the disappearance of several traders. We've been tasked with investigating and, if necessary, neutralizing the threat."

Shadowfen. Lyrien's heart quickened. He'd heard the stories—the dark forest at the heart of Elyria, filled with creatures and dangers unlike anywhere else. It was a place where many who ventured in never returned. But he had no choice. This was the path he had chosen, and this mission could be the key to proving his worth.

Arin continued, "This is a test—not just for Lyrien, but for all of you. Stick together, rely on each other, and remember—no one succeeds alone. Now, let's move."

The group set off, leaving the stone walls of the Hold behind as they traveled the road toward Shadowfen. The journey was long, but the conversation among the group lightened the mood. Kael entertained with his usual banter, and Lila shared stories of her past missions, offering advice to Lyrien on what to expect. It felt like a bonding experience, even with the looming threat ahead.

As they neared the edge of the forest, the atmosphere shifted. The sunlight dimmed, swallowed by the thick canopy of trees, and a cold, unnatural fog crept along the ground. The sounds of birds and insects were replaced by eerie silence. Lyrien gripped his sword tightly, his heart pounding.

"This place gives me the creeps," Kael muttered, his jovial tone replaced by a rare hint of unease.

"You're not wrong," Lila agreed, her eyes scanning the surroundings. "Shadowfen's never been a friendly place. Stay alert."

Arin took the lead, guiding them deeper into the forest. They moved quietly, the tension palpable. Every snap of a twig, every rustle of leaves made Lyrien's pulse quicken. His senses felt heightened, the weight of the mission settling over him like a heavy cloak.

The group paused near a clearing as Arin raised his hand. "This is where the traders were last seen," he said, kneeling to inspect the ground. The fog swirled around them, obscuring their vision. "Stay sharp."

Suddenly, a low growl echoed from the trees. Lyrien's hand instinctively went to his sword. From the shadows, figures emerged—twisted creatures with dark, hollow eyes and misshapen forms. They moved silently, but their presence was undeniable, sending a shiver down Lyrien's spine.