DARIAN TRAVELS

 Alika's letters to Darian.

Chapter Two - Journey through the Northern Forest.

There was a stillness amongst the caravan, save for the air rustling through the leaves on the trees bordering the lane. One or two of the handlers could be heard quietly discussing something between themselves as they sat on the wagon in front. Instinctively the bosk, shifted in their harnesses in anticipation. Some of the handlers moved amongst the bosk, checking harnesses, and ensuring that everything was securely fastened for the journey ahead. Others were seated at the head of their wagons waiting for the signal.

At the front of the caravan, the marshal, who had previously walked the line, stood aside in the lane, observing, and checking the procession. He then raised a small horn-shaped instrument to his mouth and emitted two short but distinct blasts before retreating out of sight to his own wagon at the head of the caravan. Instantly, the bosk began to take up the slack, their handlers in front urging them on with cries of encouragement to pull the heavy wagons into motion. Amidst the cacophony, the sounds of creaking wagons and the jangle of metal workings binding leather harnesses added to the sounds.

In a sudden jolt, our own wagon lurched forward into motion and Cyrus added encouragement as he joined the chorus coaxing the beasts onward. Gradually, the wagons began to move forward, albeit slowly. Soon, the caravan settled into a leisurely but steady pace, easily matched for a man on foot, barely faster than brisk walking and the cries of the handlers faded away.

We were not on the coastal road for long before the caravan turned off to the right onto a narrow trail that disappeared into the depths of the forest.

Soon towering Tur trees on either side loomed overhead, their ancient branches stretching towards the sky and casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The air was thick with the scent of earth and tree scents, and a closed dense ambiance enveloped us as we delved deeper into the forest.

Amidst the tall trees, the woods teemed with life. Dense ferns carpeted the undergrowth. Hermit birds tapped rhythmically upon tree trunks, their pattering beats echoing through the dense foliage. Leaves rustled in the gentle breeze high in the canopy, and distant cries and calls of wild creatures added to the symphony of sounds that surrounded us.

As we rode on, Cyrus began sharing his wisdom and insights about navigating the forest, commenting about the creatures responsible for the sounds we heard. With each passing moment, I found myself growing more captivated by his knowledge and expertise, realizing there was much to learn from this seasoned traveller.

Soon, Cyrus began to share his personal history with us. He spoke of his humble beginnings as a peasant farmer, much like Elisha or myself, toiling under the sun and tending to the land with his own hands. However, Cyrus's fortunes changed when he seized an opportunity to assist the merchants who travelled the road between Helmutsport and Kassau.

He had carved out a niche for himself in the world of trade, working for a local merchant, developing an innate understanding of commerce. With each journey he undertook alongside the merchants, Cyrus gained experience of the trade routes, and he prospered, eventually earning enough to acquire his own wagon. In time, he finally achieved his goal of independence, branching out on his own and establishing himself as a respected merchant in his own right. As Cyrus shared his story with us, I couldn't help but admire this gentle older man who had through the trials and tribulations of his past, gained success and prosperity, inspiring me to continue pushing forward on my own path, no matter the obstacles that lay ahead.

 

We continued along the forest path for the remainder of the day and as the sun dipped below the tree line, casting a golden hue over the forest, we finally reached the southern side of the great forest. The fading light prompted the handlers to draw the wagons into a protective circle, a makeshift barrier against the unknown dangers that lurked within the forest.

Around us, a camp sprang to life. Some of the merchants erected small lean-to tents against their wagons, providing shelter for the night, while others busied themselves with building a campfire in the centre of the circle. The aroma of cooking soon filled the air, as I helped with the preparation. We made pan bread and a hearty meal of tarsk stew served with warm paga.

As I settled into the comfort of the camp upon my bedroll, I found myself reflecting on the day's journey and the valuable insight I had learned from Cyrus. His words of wisdom echoed in my mind, reminding me of the need to recharge and regroup before facing the challenges of the road ahead.

Amidst the gentle murmur of conversation and the crackling of the fire, I felt the weight of exhaustion begin to tug at my eyelids. Yet, as sleep beckoned, I observed Elisha taking out a large gem-like crystal covered with a cloth and showing it to Cyrus. The two of them engaged in animated discussion, their voices hushed as they pondered its significance before sleep devoured me.

 

With the dawn of a new day, the caravan stirred to life once more, resuming its journey along the path of the Laurius River. As we travelled beside the gentle flow of water, the landscape unfolded before us in a panorama of natural beauty. Rolling hills stretched out into the distance, adorned with lush meadows and colourful wildflowers swaying in the breeze. The soothing sound of flowing water provided a comforting backdrop to our journey, offering a sense of tranquillity amidst the bustle of travel.

Our trail followed the meandering course of the river, tall grasses swayed in the breeze, wildflowers dotted the banks, and the horizon broken by the occasional ka-la-na tree. Eventually, we arrived at the ford—a shallow crossing where the river's waters flowed lazily across the path. With careful precision, the caravan navigated the ford, the bosk stepping cautiously through the shallows as we crossed to the other side. In the distance lay the city of Piedmont nestling among gentle slopes.

As we arrived in Piedmont, it was time to bid farewell to Cyrus as he prepared to enter the city to deliver his cargo. With heartfelt gratitude, we expressed our appreciation for his guidance and companionship during the first leg of our journey. His wisdom and camaraderie had been invaluable, and we knew we would miss his presence on the road ahead.

With our goodbyes said, Elisha and I set out to find passage onward towards Sardar. The bustling streets of Piedmont beckoned, promising new adventures and challenges on the road ahead. Yet, as we made our way through the city, my thoughts returned to the gemstone that Elisha carried. I couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity, eager to learn more about its origins and significance. In our travels to come, I would uncover more about this mysterious gem.