Michrinor: The Fates of The Heirs

Chapter 12 - Doreperth

As Ava and her companions rounded the final bend, the towering gates of Doreperth came into view, standing tall and regal amidst the surrounding landscape. The massive walls loomed high, an imposing barrier against any threat, with guards patrolling atop, their silhouettes outlined against the fading light of day. Some guards were lighting lanterns that cast a warm glow over the city as the last rays of the sun disappeared. A few guards paused, noticing the strange band of travelers below, but after a brief glance, they returned to their duties, paying little heed.

Ava felt a sudden urge to wave, as if greeting neighbors on Main Street back home, but she quickly dismissed the thought. This wasn't the place for such casual gestures, so she kept her hands by her sides and followed the Momos quietly.

As they approached the gate, Ava couldn't help but be reminded of the castles she had seen in fairy tales or cartoons. But the reality was different, more solid and intimidating. There was no moat filled with alligators, as she had imagined. Instead, the land sloped up to the massive stone walls, and the gate itself was not a drawbridge but a pair of enormous double doors, reinforced with dark, rough wood and metal bracing. Above the gate, a heavy iron grate could be lowered in times of need, adding another layer of security to the already formidable defenses.

Unable to resist, Ava brushed her fingers against the carved wood of the gate as they passed through. The texture was rough under her fingertips, and she felt a slight tingle, like a faint current of energy running through the wood. It reminded her of the static shocks she sometimes got from touching metal, though it wasn't painful. Startled, she withdrew her hand and examined her fingers, but there was nothing unusual. Shrugging it off, she hurried to catch up with the others.

Inside the city walls, the bustle of evening activity enveloped them. Guards stood on either side of the gate, their watchful eyes scanning the flow of people entering and leaving the city. Market stalls were closing up for the day, and the vendors called out their final offers to passersby. The air was filled with the enticing aromas of freshly baked bread and roasting meats, making Ava's stomach growl loudly, earning her a chorus of giggles from the Momos. She shot them a playful glare, though she couldn't help but smile at their innocence.

As they moved deeper into the city, Ava noticed that the guards stationed within the city were unlike any she had ever seen before. They were giants compared to anyone back home, their towering figures making even the tallest men she knew seem small. They had light, piercing eyes—either blue or sea green—and their skin, though varying in shade, was flawless. Their hair ranged from white to blue to jet black, adding to their striking appearance. Despite their imposing presence, the guards seemed kind toward the Momos, exchanging respectful nods and greetings with the little creatures.

One guard in particular caught Ava's attention. He was a little younger looking than the others, with light brown, shaggy hair that looked like it belonged in a boy band poster. Ava almost laughed at the thought, finding it funny how out of place he seemed compared to what she would think a soldier would look like. As they approached, this guard, Svonman, bent down to give Meepat a hug, lifting the little Momo off the ground with ease.

"Boondell! It's been many moons since last we met. How fares the tribe?" the guard asked, his voice filled with warmth as he set Meepat back down.

Boondell, the leader of the Momos, smiled up at the young guard. "Indeed, it has been too long, Svon. The tribe prospers, thanks in no small part to you and your kin. The Beli Forest remains peaceful, and our hearts are light."

"That is a glad tiding," Svon replied, his gaze shifting to Ava. His expression grew curious as he studied her. "But pray, who is this maiden you bring to our gates?"

Boondell gestured for Ava to step forward. "This is Lady Ava, Svonman. She is a stranger to our lands, yet we believe her journey is intertwined with the fate of this realm. We seek the counsel of the king."