Chapter 34: Crocodile in Calm Waters
The envoy from the capital, led by the renowned Laksmana Bujang Sangga, was scheduled to embark on their journey today. The first day of the last month of the year 5441 of the Aenan Calendar. Their destination was the town of Cardinal Peaks, located a month's travel away, due east.
As the envoy prepared to embark on their journey, the leadership of Laksmana Bujang Sangga ensured that they were well-equipped and protected. The envoy consisted of a vargo, a large and sturdy carriage, accompanied by two freight wagons. These wagons were pulled by the finest breed of horses, chosen for their strength and endurance to withstand the month-long travel ahead.
To ensure the safety of the envoy, Laksmana Bujang assembled a skilled and capable guard. Ten spearmen and five archers, all trained in combat were assigned to protect the envoy throughout their journey. These men, equipped with weapons and armor suited for their roles, were ready to defend the envoy against any potential threats they might encounter along the way.
The Gear worn by the spearmen and archers sacrifices its durability in favor of mobility due to the long journey they were about to embark on. This Gear encompassed a combination of practicality and wind magic enhancements to boost their accuracy and speed, providing them with an edge in combat situations.
Laksmana Bujang ensured that each member of the envoy was properly trained in utilizing their gear. They understood the importance of their roles and the responsibility they held. With the vargo and freight wagons, protected by skilled guards each armored with Gears, the envoy was well-prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead.
Under the guidance of Laksmana Bujang, they set off on their journey to Cardinal Peaks, confident in their abilities and ready to fulfill their mission on behalf of the Sultanate. Supplies, provisions, and necessary resources were carefully organized to sustain the group throughout their month-long travel to Cardinal Peaks.
As a seasoned leader, Laksmana Bujang understood the importance of maintaining morale and cohesion within the envoy. He fostered a sense of unity among the members, emphasizing the significance of their mission and the positive impact it would have on the sultanate.
With their trust in their leader and their shared commitment to the mission, the envoy embarked on this month-long travel, prepared to face whatever awaited them until they reached their destination, the port town of Cardinal Peaks.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"We have reached the edge of the Purba Forest."
"We will camp here for the night!"
As nightfall descended upon the envoy, Laksmana Bujang Sangga, their esteemed leader decided to set up camp for the night. With his keef awareness and knowledge of the surrounding terrain, Laksmana Bujang selected a suitable location that provided security and shelter for the group.
Under his command, the members of the envoy efficiently organized themselves, setting up tents, arranging necessary supplies, and establishing a perimeter for security. Laksmana Bujang's attention to detail and thorough planning ensured that the campsite was well-prepared to meet the needs of the group.
As the night settled and the camp was set up, the cook of the envoy diligently prepared their meal under the guidance of Laksmana Bujang. Recognizing the significance of sustenance and its impact on morale, Laksmana Bujang made sure that the cook had access to the necessary provisions and resources to create a satisfying meal for the members of the envoy.
In this instance, the cook skillfully utilized the available ingredients and drew inspiration from the local cuisine to prepare a dish known as laksa. Laksa is a flavorful and aromatic noodle soup that combines a variety of ingredients and spices to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
The cook carefully selected fresh herbs and spices such as chili pepper, torch-flower buds, and coriander to be mixed with the broth, adding depth and complexity to its taste. They skillfully cooked the noodles to perfection and added shrimp paste to make the meal more substantial and satisfying.
As the enticing aroma of the laksa filled the air, the members of the envoy eagerly gathered around the campfire, their anticipation growing. Laksmana Bujang, aware of the impact of communal dining, encouraged the group to come together, fostering a sense of fellowship.
The cook served the steaming bowls of laksa, garnished with fragrant herbs and a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavors. The members of the envoy gratefully accepted their bowls, savoring the rich and comforting soup that warmed their bodies and lifted their spirits.
"Thank you, Chef Ramlee."
"Your culinary skills never cease to amaze me."
"This laksa is exceptional."
「 Chef Ramlee 」
"It's an honor to serve you and the members of the envoy, Laksmana Bujang."
"I'm glad you appreciate it."
The members of the envoy savored the laksa, their taste buds ignited by the harmonious blend of flavors. The chili pepper added a subtle heat, balanced by the torch-flower buds' floral notes and the fragrant coriander. The shrimp paste contributed a savory depth that elevated the dish to new heights.
Conversation flowed among the members of the envoy as they enjoyed their meal. The flavors of the laksa, combined with the sense of togetherness, created a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Stories were shared, laughter echoed through the campsite, and bonds were strengthened. Laksmana Bujang, observing the positive impact of the communal meal, took a moment to address the group.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"It is moments like this shared meal that remind us of the strength we find in unity."
"Let us remember that as we continue our journey to Cardinal Peaks."
"Each one of us plays a crucial role, and together, we shall overcome whatever challenges lie ahead. We'll reach there in no time!"
Laksmana Bujang, observing the positive impact of the shared meal, took the opportunity to remind the group of their collective purpose and the significance of their mission. He highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation, emphasizing that their success relied on each member's dedication and support for one another.
With their bodies nourished and their spirits uplifted, the members of the envoy settled in for the night, ready to face the challenges that awaited them on the journey to Cardinal Peaks. Laksmana Bujang's leadership ensured that they were not only physically prepared but also mentally and emotionally fortified for the tasks ahead.
The campfire crackled, providing warmth and a sense of security in the vast wilderness. The envoy rested, knowing that they were under the capable guidance of Laksmana Bujang, ready to continue their journey with renewed strength and determination when the sun rose once again.
"Lieutenant Ohma, set the night watch."
"We need to ensure our safety throughout the night."
"The rest of you, get some rest."
Lieutenant Ohma Mowtah, a trusted member of the envoy, took charge of organizing the night watch. He selected a small group of spearmen and archers who would take turns keeping a vigilant eye on the surroundings, ensuring that no potential threats would catch them off guard.
The rest of the members of the envoy, reassured by Laksmana Bujang's capable leadership, settled down to rest. They found comfort in the flickering glow of the campfire, its warmth enveloping them as they lay on their bedrolls, seeking respite after a long day's journey.
Laksmana Bujang, aware of the importance of rest and recuperation, encouraged everyone to find their moment of peace amidst the wilderness. He reminded them to maintain their focus and be prepared for the challenges that awaited them in the days ahead.
As the night watch diligently kept their posts, the soft sounds of nature merged with the crackling of the campfire. The envoy found comfort in the quietude, a temporary respite from the demands of their mission.
Laksmana Bujang himself took a moment to reflect, gazing into the dancing flames. He contemplated the responsibilities he carried on his shoulders, the trust bestowed upon him by the Sultan. With a deep breath, he reaffirmed his commitment to lead the envoy safely to Cardinal Peaks, fulfilling their mission with honor and success.
Throughout the night, the watchful eyes of the sentries observed the darkness, their senses attuned to any potential dangers. Their training and discipline ensured that the camp remained secure, allowing the rest of the members to find solace in their much-needed rest.
◈◈◈
" Kraakk... "
It has been an hour since the second watch replaced the first one. The sound of a breaking branch suddenly pierced the stillness of the night. The sentries immediately snapped to attention, their eyes scanning the surrounding darkness for any signs of movement.
「 Lieutenant Ohma 」
"Hold your positions!"
"Stay alert!"
The sentries tightened their grips on their weapons, their hearts pounding as they awaited further clues. The crackling sound had raised their senses, reminding them of the ever-present dangers that lurked in the wilderness.
As the moments passed, the sentries carefully surveyed their surroundings, their eyes adjusting to the dim light provided by the campfire. They remained silent, keenly listening for any other signs of the disturbance.
Suddenly, a rustling noise emerged from the nearby bushes, causing the sentries to tense up. Their training kicked in, and they swiftly communicated through hand signals, ensuring they maintained a defensive formation.
"Prepare yourselves! We may have an intruder."
The envoy members who were roused from their slumber by the commotion began to gather, their eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and concern.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"What is it, Lieutenant?"
「 Lieutenant Ohma 」
"We heard something."
"It came from bushes."
"The sentries are investigating it right now."
Laksmana Bujang nodded, his gaze focused on the area where the sounds had originated from. The envoy members stood ready, their weapons at the ready, prepared to defend themselves if necessary.
With caution, one of the sentries slowly approached the bushes, his senses heightened, and his grip firm on his spear. He peered through the foliage, searching for any signs of movement or potential threats. After a tense moment, the sentry's face relaxed, and he stepped back, signaling to the others that the threat had dissipated.
「 Sentry Dessa 」
"False alarm, Lieutenant."
"It seems to have been an animal passing through the area."
「 Lieutenant Ohma 」
"Remain vigilant, everyone."
"Keep your eyes open."
"Don't let your guard down."
"Resume your positions."
The sentries nodded and resumed their watch, their senses sharpened and their focus unyielding. The rest of the envoy members settled back into their rest, though a lingering sense of caution remained in the air.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"Lieutenant."
"Send a scout to scour the perimeter."
"We are at the edge of the forest."
"Better be safe than sorry."
The ancient and mysterious Purba Forest is a dangerous yet captivating place. Its dense vegetation and unknown creatures make it both alluring and treacherous. The envoy understood the importance of thoroughly scouting the perimeter to ensure their safety.
「 Lieutenant Ohma 」
"Understood, Laksmana Bujang."
"I will send a scout immediately."
Kellar Stillheart Ravenhold, one of the experienced members of the envoy, known for his stealth and agility, volunteered to take on the scouting task. Equipped with a bow and a keen sense of awareness, the elven ranger swiftly disappeared into the shadows of the forest, blending seamlessly with his surroundings.
The rest of the envoy remained on high alert, their eyes scanning the darkened forest with anticipation. They knew that danger could lurk beyond the campsite, and their trust in the ranger's abilities offered some reassurance.
Time seemed to stretch as the envoy awaited the scout's return. Minutes turned into an hour, and concern flickered in their eyes. Finally, the silence was broken by the sound of rustling leaves, and Kellar emerged from the forest, their face etched with a mix of weariness and relief.
「 Ranger Kellar 」
"Laksmana Bujang, the perimeter is clear for the time being."
"I detected no immediate threats, but the forest holds many unknowns."
"The nearby swamp gave off a strange magical presence."
"We must remain cautious."
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"Thank you for your thoroughness, Kellar."
"Your insights are invaluable."
"The presence of magic in the nearby swamp is a cause for concern."
"We must exercise caution and be prepared for the unexpected."
The envoy members listened intently, their brows furrowed with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. The mention of a magical presence added another layer of complexity to their journey through the Purba Forest.
"Kellar, did you notice any specific signs or indications of the magical presence?"
"We must gather as much information as we can to navigate this unknown territory safely."
「 Ranger Kellar 」
"The air felt charged with arcane energy, and there were faint glimmers of light flickering amidst the mist that hovers above the swamp."
"It's difficult to discern the exact nature of the magic, but it felt both ancient and potent."
Laksmana Bujang nodded, his expression serious.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"We cannot underestimate the potential dangers that lie ahead."
"We shall adjust our course to avoid the immediate vicinity of the swamp."
"Our primary objective is to reach Cardinal Peaks safely, but we must also remain vigilant and adaptable."
The envoy members, now even more aware of the challenges they faced, nodded in agreement. They understood the importance of heeding Kellar's warning and adjusting their plans accordingly.
"I commend you for your diligence and the risks you took to gather this crucial information, ranger."
"We shall proceed with caution, keeping a safe distance from the swamp while maintaining our focus on the path ahead."
「 Ranger Kellar 」
"Thank you, Laksmana Bujang."
"I will continue to keep a watchful eye and alert the envoy of any further developments or potential threats."
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"We move out now!"
"Pack up and get ready!"
With their course adjusted to avoid the swamp, the envoy continued their journey through the Purba Forest that night in recognition of the threat coming from the swamp. Each step carried a mixture of determination, curiosity, and wariness. The forest seemed to respond to their presence, the ancient trees whispering secrets and casting long shadows.
As they pressed forward, the envoy remained on guard, mindful of the magical presence lurking in the nearby swamp. They relied on the expertise and vigilance of Ranger Kellar, who continued to scout ahead, his elven senses attuned to the subtleties of the forest.
The journey through the Purba Forest became a delicate dance of caution and progress. The envoy members trusted in their collective strength and the guidance of their leader, Laksmana Bujang, as they navigated through the rough, gravel road.
「 Chief Gralis 」
"Well well well..."
"What do we have here?"
"Humans?"
"It has been a while since Chief Gralis tasted human meat."
"Hahaha..."
An eight-foot-tall craglisk, a humanoid crocodile race emerged from the shadows, its yellow eyes gleaming with a predatory glint. Behind him was a bask of craglisk warriors, fully armed and armored. The envoy members tightened their grips on their weapons, their senses heightened as they faced this unexpected threat.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"Stand firm, everyone!"
"Prepare for battle!"
The envoy quickly formed a defensive formation, with Laksmana Bujang at the forefront, rallying their comrades. The craglisk chief, Gralis, loomed over them, its muscular frame exuding an aura of absolute power and danger.
「 Ranger Kellar 」
"We mean you no harm."
"We are on a peaceful mission through the Purba Forest."
"We seek only passage and wish to avoid unnecessary conflict."
Chief Gralis bared his sharp teeth in a menacing grin, his voice a low growl.
「 Chief Gralis 」
"Peaceful?"
"Humans are all the same."
"You trespass in our territory, and now you shall pay the price."
The envoy members stood firm, their determination unshaken. They knew that negotiation might be futile against such a formidable opponent, but they refused to be intimidated.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"We have no desire for violence, Chief Gralis, but we will defend ourselves if necessary."
"We seek only safe passage through the forest."
"Is there a way we can resolve this peacefully?"
Chief Gralis eyed them with a mix of curiosity and aggression, contemplating their words for a moment. Finally, he let out a deep, rumbling laugh.
「 Chief Gralis 」
"You humans are amusing."
"Very well, I shall grant you passage through my territory, but there is a condition."
"You must prove your worth in combat."
"Defeat my strongest warrior in a duel, and I shall let you continue on your way."
The envoy members exchanged glances, understanding the gravity of the situation. They had no choice but to accept the challenge if they wanted to proceed.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"We accept your challenge, Chief Gralis."
"We shall prove our mettle and earn our passage."
「 Chief Gralis 」
"Very well then..."
"Meet my son, Gratus."
"The finest warrior of the Calmwaters Tribe!"
As Chief Gralis spoke, a figure stepped forward from behind him. It was a young craglisk, smaller in stature compared to his father but radiating a fierce determination. Gratus, the finest warrior of the Calmwaters Tribe, stood before the envoy, his eyes filled with confidence.
「 Totem Warrior Gratus 」
"Humans, where is my opponent?"
"I will show him the strength of the Calmwaters Tribe!"
The envoy members looked at each other, realizing that they had to select a champion to face Gratus in the duel. After a moment of consideration, Ranger Kellar stepped forward, his elven features displaying a calm yet resolute expression.
「 Ranger Kellar 」
"I will take up the challenge, Gratus."
"Prepare yourself."
「 Totem Warrior Gratus 」
"An elf?"
"Being a human lapdog?"
"Hahaha..."
Gratus smirked, clearly underestimating his elven opponent. The envoy members formed a circle around the duelists, creating a space for them to engage in combat. The forest fell silent, the air thick with anticipation.
The duel began, and Kellar moved swiftly, his elven agility and precision evident in every movement. He expertly dodged Gratus's initial attacks, weaving through them with grace and ease. Gratus, taken aback by Ranger Kellar's skill, adjusted his approach, attacking with more ferocity.
The two warriors clashed, their weapons meeting with resounding clashes. Ranger Kellar's elven longbow and nimble footwork complemented his precise strikes, while Gratus relied on his brute strength and the natural armaments of his craglisk form. The duel was a display of contrasting styles, each combatant pushing themselves to their limits.
As the duel continued, Ranger Kellar's calculated maneuvers and strategic strikes began to wear down Gratus. The envoy members watched with bated breath, their hope resting on their champion's shoulders. With a final, well-placed arrow, Ranger Kellar disarmed Gratus, leaving him defenseless.
「 Ranger Kellar 」
"It's over, Gratus."
"Yield."
Gratus, breathing heavily and recognizing his defeat, nodded with a mix of frustration and respect.
「 Totem Warrior Gratus 」
"You... you have bested me, ranger."
"I yield."
Chief Gralis observed the duel with a mix of surprise and admiration. He approached Ranger Kellar, a grudging respect evident in his voice.
「 Chief Gralis 」
"You have proven your worth, ranger."
"You have earned your passage through our territory."
"But remember, the Calmwaters Tribe will be watching closely."
With those words, Chief Gralis and his son stepped back, allowing the envoy members to continue their journey through the Purba Forest. The envoy approached Ranger Kellar, congratulating him on his victory.
「 Laksmana Bujang 」
"Well fought, Ranger Kellar."
"Your skill and determination have brought us one step closer to our goal."
"We owe you our gratitude."
Ranger Kellar nodded, a humble smile gracing his lips.
「 Ranger Kellar 」
"Thank you, Laksmana Bujang."
Amidst their celebration, a shower of arrows hailed upon the envoy, catching them off guard. They quickly dove for cover, seeking protection from the unexpected attack. Ranger Kellar, ever alert, swiftly assessed the situation and called out to his comrades.
"Take cover!"
"We're under attack!"
The envoy members scattered, finding refuge behind trees and natural formations. They prepared their own weapons, ready to defend themselves against the ambush. Ranger Kellar scanned the surroundings, trying to identify the source of the attack.
From the dense foliage emerged a group of cloaked figures, their bows drawn and arrows aimed at the envoy. Their faces obscured by hoods, they moved with a fluidity and precision that hinted at their expertise. It was evident that this was a well-coordinated assault.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Babazam
Babazam Edit: 22 Nov 23
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