Chasing Legends

A New Land

She decided warm air was great. Selena inhaled deep, free from any scarf or mask she would have needed back home in the Hold of Arkaley; where the cold could cause coughing fits mid-day and freeze lungs solid in the dead of night. Breathing so deep and so free was nearly intoxicating—despite the strange smells of Westwend. It made her head spin.

In the far southern port, the sea had an intense briny odor, worsened by the hot decay of fish and refuse. Curiously, two streets over from the dock, more pleasant smells permeated the air like fragrant flowers and freshly prepared food. Selena preferred the flowers, however, despite not knowing their name. She was new to the land, and all of it was strange to her. This is what she wanted, however, to be on her own in a strange place, finding a quest wherever there was one to be and see where it could take her. It was a far better life to lead than her alternative.

Besides, she grew up hearing stories of heroes and explorers at the knee of her Nan. What other outcome was possible for Selena than to pack up and leave home. She had a loose plan—sail as far away from the land of Dalry (and home) as possible (which lead her to the Port of Westwend), find and join a retinue of travelers (where she was now on her list), and travel the world in search of adventure. Maybe save a village or two in the process as well.

The stories her Nan told her always started in an inn or a tavern, so why should hers be any different? Selena stood before The Calm Coin, prepared to face her destiny. Surely, she would find companions soon. Selena stepped inside.