HPDBC Chapter 21: Head Captain
Chapter 21: Head Captain
Chapter 21: Head Captain
Peering out over the expansive town before him, Ty remarked, "This town seems much larger than where I and Elithira began our journey. Do you know where that might be? I'd like to go back there someday."
With evident regret in his eyes, Todd responded, "I'm not entirely sure about what your starting point might be, but the nearest village I know of might be around twenty miles in the other direction."
Ty's hollow eye sockets widened in disbelief. "How could that be? How long had I been unconscious for?"
After taking a moment to think, Todd explained, "I started my shift that morning, and by then, you were already detained. I'd say that you might have been out for around two days. But in this realm, travel can be quite swift. We often used teleportation crystals and other arcane methods."
"You aren't native to these lands, are you?" Todd observed, a trace of amusement evident in his voice.
Ty playfully shot back, "Was it my skeletal appearance that gave me away?"
With that, they continued their journey.
As they approached the town's ornate wooden gates, they were greeted with intricate carvings depicting the historical events and legendary creatures.
Ty queried, "Your former Boss made some intricate hand gestures before lunging at me. Tusandro did something similar before everything went black for me. What's the significance of these characters?"
"Oh, you mean magic weaving?" Todd asked. "It's how we are able to unlock our talents temporarily, be it for a fight or to perform any number of abilities."
Ty raised a brow, intrigued by this and muttered to himself, "That seems like an odd concept, but then again, he did mention each place has its unique take on life."
As they continued walking, the ambient sounds of the marketplace enveloped them. Merchants strummed their instruments, creating a melody that danced through the air, while others energetically haggled with customers, promoting their wares.
Amid the bustle, Todd glanced at Ty, curiosity evident in his eyes and asked, "You seem to hold many mysteries, but how do you fight if not with Weaving?"
Ty paused, lost in thought for a moment and answered, "That's a good question. I really didn't know. But both the times I fought, it felt like I was in some kind of trance. My movements just flowed naturally."
He rubbed his chin and then recalled, "I believe it might be about channeling energy directly from one's soul. My friend referred to it as 'RESIENCEIA,' though I have always been stumbling over its pronunciation."
Todd's eyes widened in admiration as he nodded, "Well, I hoped to witness you in battle someday. Defeating the boss clearly displays that you possess some exceptional skill, especially since he had over 15 years of combat experience."
Ty nodded slowly, still processing. "I suppose so. By the way, Todd, how far until—" just as he was about to ask something, he was interrupted by a booming voice.
Ty's voice rose in alarm, "What was that?!"
Todd's voice was hoarse as he gasped while responding, "It's the captain. He is notoriously known for his patience. His movements are swift, as for his temper, sharp enough to stab."
Before the two could delve any deeper into the establishment, their movement was stopped by a woman with a commanding presence.
The woman stood tall, with her raven-black hair cascading down her back. Her eyes were sharp as they remained fixed on Todd's eyes, assessing the fellow.
The traditional kimono she wore clung to her figure very well, accentuating her ample bosom.
Yet, it wasn't just her striking appearance but the authority she exuded demanded immediate attention of the two.
"Always finding trouble, aren't you, Todd?" she remarked, her tone filled with a mix of exasperation and concern.
"You didn't blow your cover at the guardhouse, did you?" With her piercing gaze, she asked, seeking the truth.
Todd seemed a little uncomfortable as he answered, "Well, if I were to say then yes. But there might be a silver lining that is worth the risk."
Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by another ground-shaking tremor, prompting everyone to brace themselves.
"You mentioned that you witnessed a giant meteor crashing down a few days ago," Todd began, taking a look at Ty and then continued, "I believe that this skeleton might be related to that event."
Ty, who was caught off guard, spoke sheepishly, "Y-you all saw that?"
"Of course," the woman responded as she continued sipping her tea. "Anyone who was out of their homes and buildings at the time would've seen it. It caused quite the commotion and uproar."
She paused, then addressing Ty, she asked, "So, do you know the origin of that meteor?"
Ty hesitated, "Well, in a way, yes. That meteor was... me. It had a distinct green and black hue. Elithira warned me that I left quite the beacon behind, though I that wasn't intentional."
"You what...!"
The woman almost choked on the tea she had been sipping and set the cup down in an abrupt manner.
A plethora of emotions played across her face before she asked, her voice barely different from that of a whisper, "Has Elithira returned?"