The Dark Citadel: A Classic Fantasy Adventure by Peter Servidio

Author:Peter Servidio [Servidio, Peter]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2022-06-01T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eleven - Ferdland Outpost

The trip from the Forgotten Islands to the docks of the Ferdland Outpost took the companions about seven days of uneventful sea travel. Standing on the dock of the outpost, Hamish and the others quickly realized that the land they were about to enter was far from safe.

A beast of a man with a long red beard tied in braids passing his waist and a necklace adorned with Orc ears approached the group. “I am Captain Garland. I am responsible for all non-hostile visitors to this outpost. I notice your ship is not on our manifest, and I guarantee no one comes here for pleasure.”

Hamish stepped forward and extended his arm in greeting, “I am Hamish Jones and these are my companions: Akita, Darwen, and Obious.”

Captain Garland looked at the group, taking note of each unique appearance. “So, why not tell me about your business in Ferdland.”

“The Dark Citadel is rising to the east.”

Garland nodded, “I have heard rumors of such.”

“And my companions and I are on a mission to prevent it.” Hamish withdrew the Crown of the First King from his pouch. “We have the first of the three relics we need to make this happen and believe the second, the Scepter of Souls, is somewhere beyond the Orcish Wastes in the Pit of Sorrows.”

Garland again looked from Hamish to his companions and then turned to face the gate leading into the Orcish Wastes. “Come join me for a meal and rest before you head out. The Wastes are relentless and you will be hard-pressed to find peaceful rest once you leave the outpost.”

“We would be honored,” answered Hamish.

****

Less than fifteen minutes later, the group found themselves seated in the tiny outpost tavern. Barely eight tables filled the small space, which was lit by the large hearth across from the bar. Sitting at one of the many open tables, Garland motioned for the others to do the same.

An older barmaid walked over to the table, “Good day Captain. Loves. What can I get you?”

“Five mugs of mead and some salted herring. If there is any of that fresh boar meat from yesterday’s kill, we would also take a platter of that, Sylvia.”

Sylvia smiled, “Anything for you and your friends, Love.” And with that, she sauntered off through a small door behind the bar to fetch the food.

Moments later, Sylvia appeared with two platters - one with boar meat and the second with herring. She placed them on the table and fetched the mugs of mead. Lifting his mug, Captain Garland offered a toast, “To safe journeys and safer returns!” The companions raised their mugs in acknowledgment and then dug into the meal.

Once each had eaten and drank their fill, Garland showed the group a small shack where they could rest. “It’s not much, but it will shelter you for the evening. If I do not see you in the morning, I bid you safe journeys. Also should you return… this way, please feel free to stop in for a hearty meal and drink before leaving Ferland.

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