The old castle town had a reputation he heard whispered from behind cups. Whispers of hidden dealings and secretive factions. Not that he minded too much. Trouble wasn’t something he avoided, instead choosing to meet it head on more often than not. Still, the eerie calm that seemed to seep from Oak’s ancient stones did make him wonder. It wasn’t the kind of place that flaunted its dangers but he could feel unnerving atmosphere. The sense of a world hidden beneath the surface.
As he crested the final hill, a town revealed itself in full at last. A sprawling castle looming high above the narrow streets and timbered houses. Tts spires catching the painted glow of a setting sun as a day came and went. The sight was impressive, but Goji’s gaze swept downward toward the town itself. After all, he wasn’t here for sightseeing.
The forest behind him seemed to shrink the closer he and Altuo drew. Adjusting the strap of his pack, Goji took a deep breath. The faint aroma of woodsmoke mingling with the crisp evening air. His eyes narrowed slightly as he descended into Oak's borders. More than ready for whatever shadows awaited them.
[ WC - 265/200 ]