The Path of the Adventurer

Chapter 2

            The southern area of the capital's surrounding forest was open to everyone. The northern side, however, was forbidden - for it was goblin territory. Every night the goblins' sentries would usually awaken from their slumber. They would always remain in their territory, aware of their advanced and taller enemies. Even during daylight, the uppermost and northern part of the forest was forbidden to everyone - save for knights, adventurers, and high-ranking soldiers - due to the possibility of traps and dangerous creatures.

Erion set foot into the woods with his sword in his sheath and his shield on his left arm. This was part of the exact same forested expanse that held Casthor and its surrounding villages. Despite this part of the forest being far from Casthor, the familiar scenery and environment carried the nostalgic notion of home. The oak and yew trees did not twist in intricate patterns like those Erion was used to; but the aroma was similar, if not identical to Casthor. On the ground was a trail of dirt, twigs and grass, leading far into the forest's depths. The bushes were condensed between the trees - forming the perfect forest environment.

As Erion took in his surroundings, birds chirped and flew about the forest, creating soothing melodies. The sun shone brilliantly as the breeze blew calmly against Erion's face. Even though there were a few clouds about, this weather was enough to brighten up his day.

Suddenly, a bird came along and flew around Erion in circles. Fascinated, Erion reached out his hand. The bird gently placed its tiny feet onto Erion's hand. "Hey, little guy." Erion chuckled. Erion admired the bird, from its brown wings to its charcoal-gray beak. Butterflies passed by, searching for flowers to rest on. Squirrels scurried by, climbing their way up and down the trees, scavenging for acorns.

Something about this bird seemed special. There was a darker spot on its forehead, in a shape resembling the sun rising over the horizon. Was there something unique about it? Erion pondered this, before he finally dismissed it as mere coincidence.

Suddenly, Erion remembered his duty. "Fly away." He said, and the bird flew off into the sky. Erion then left the clearing and darted down the path ahead.

After following the trail for at least a half-hour, Erion began to take notice of dead, grey oak trees accompanied by a light mist. Curiously, he sniffed the air. It could have been bat dung or the corpse of an unfortunate wanderer, but there was a pervading odorous scent. Then, when Erion came across a turn he saw an unlocked gate built into a long run-down wooden fence. It was only certain - this was the border that separated the goblin's territory from the rest of the forest.

"So, this is the goblins' territory, huh?" He said. "I must remember what Rith taught me if I want to survive!" Bravely, Erion walked through the gate.

The goblins' territory looked almost the same as the peaceful side of the forest, but on this side, there was a rather foreboding atmosphere overlooking the approach. Shadows loomed over Erion's body. The canopy above him was like a ceiling. Not a sound was heard but the wind. Occasionally, he would come across a human or goblin skeleton lying on the side of the path. This was not much of a bother to Erion, until faint rustling, giggles, whispers, and uncanny wails sounded in the far distance. Startled, Erion instantly drew his sword and pivoted to the right. Listening carefully with his pointed ears, the sounds became fainter... and fainter... until there was nothing but mere silence.

"Lady Carolin!!" He called. "Where are you?" Still, complete silence. Erion sniffed, only to smell the usual stench of the deep woods. "No, that couldn't have been her. She must be up ahead somewhere." Said Erion. "Hopefully, she'll be there at the ruins." He did not let these minor disturbances get the best of him, as he now decided to find Carolin as fast as possible. He sheathed his sword and his shield and set off with a dash.