The Path of the Adventurer

Chapter 5

"Carolin is by herself in the nearby forest." Explained King Lionel. "She's planning on attacking the abandoned castle."

Erion tensed. Carolin's going to battle orcs face-to-face on her own? I heard that she could hold her own in battle, but is she strong enough for this? He thought. "Carolin? Why would she be doing this?"

"Reports from our scouts say that a group of orcs have captured the keep in the woods, driving the goblins out of their homeland."

"So the goblins were migrating!" Remarked Norder.

"That's exactly what we presumed when they attacked us yesterday!" Magon said.

"Yes. This does not bode well at all." Replied King Lionel. "I am almost certain that the orcs are plotting to overwhelm us and raid the city. Not only that, but because the goblins have been forced out of their territory, they may as well start looting nearby villages." The king stared blankly toward the end of the room. "The perpetrator who orchestrated the orcs' liberation will not go unpunished, I'll make certain of that!"

"But that doesn't answer our question," Erion asked. "Why is Carolin doing this? Does she know how strong the orcs are?"

"She never told me her reasons for doing this. My steward Lord Ernest strongly objected against her motives, but Carolin convinced him otherwise, citing her mother's training to justify her actions. She is also expecting you five to come to her aid."

"What? She wants us to help?"

"Yes. She's expecting you most of all, Erion. You two are friends, are you not?"

"Yeah."

"I had thought so. Carolin talks about you on and on these days; it is no wonder she would mention you in her plan. You must also remember that she too is proficient in combat."

"I knew that, but is she trained enough to fight the orcs?" Asked Erion with concern.

"As you may know by now, she's the daughter of a noblewoman known for her battle prowess. Carolin has also had her fair share of experience in battle, so the answer's most likely yes. As long as you stand by her side at all times, her safety is ensured."

"Got it."

"Do you know about her whereabouts, Sire?" Inquired Norder.

"Carolin told me she would wait for you by the entrance of the woods near the village of Knightcrest. She should be waiting there as we speak." The King explained. "Shall I provide you with a map?"

"Knightcrest is near the clearing where we camped last night, so no thanks."