Almost two centuries have passed since the mysterious tragedy of the Poseidon's Fury left its entire crew slaughtered without a trace of the assailant. Only a single shred of evidence remains - a cursed scroll clutched in the captain's severed hand...
Setting out from a leafy glade, the friends followed a narrow trail downhill. The trail gently wound through fragrant pine forests, guiding them with turns.
As they emerged from the forest, Shadow and Athena, sensing their owners' approach, were found peacefully eating grass nearby. Chrysomallo and Dex went to get their horses, exchanging soft words of greeting and affection.
Dex was met with Shadow's happy neigh and a gentle nudge to his shoulder. Chrysomallo, on the other hand, had Athena neigh in response, allowing her to carefully remove loose blades of grass from her shiny coat. The saddles and bags were prepared quickly, showing their strong partnership.
Gradually, they found themselves on the outskirts of Kirrha village, where there were few trees. Scattered throughout the rolling fields were farms, with goats and sheep grazing under the watchful eyes of young shepherds.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
(Kirrha Village's Wooded Outskirts)
As the companions stepped onto the narrow dirt lane winding between the homesteads, the villagers glanced curiously in their direction. Dex leaned in closer to Ikkos and whispered under his breath, "Our disguises are catching attention."
To reassure his companion, Ikkos softly replied while touching Dex's shoulder, "Have faith in Mallo's designs. Observe how the people react."
The moment the villagers saw the sun discs embroidered on their roughspun robes, their faces quickly returned to their tasks, unfazed. Mnesarete shot Chrysomallo an impressed glance.
"You were wise to emphasise our pilgrim status," she quietly exhaled. Chrysomallo smiled, proud that her meticulous planning effectively concealed their true purpose.
Themistonoe fell back to walk beside the others. "No one seems to suspect our true intentions now. Our disguises are doing exactly what we hoped for." The companions exchanged reassurances in hushed tones, blending seamlessly into the surroundings that Chrysomallo had orchestrated.
Continuing down the sunlit road, the companions passed fields brimming with ripe barley and pulses, swaying a gentle golden hue in the breeze. Lively laneways bustled with farmers hauling tools or guiding ox carts overflowing with produce. Small voices called out from yards adorned with orchards, where children played beneath grape arbours heavy with fruit ready for harvest.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
