Location

Crossroads Leavetaking

Created by Kstarfireheart3583

Crossroads Leavetaking marks the convergence of two well-worn dirt paths that have served travelers and merchants for centuries, forming a natural junction at the edge of the vast Thornwood Forest. The intersection itself is dominated by an ancient, gnarled oak tree of considerable height, its long spindly branches reaching skyward like skeletal fingers, a landmark so distinctive that it has guided countless wayfarers through the ages. # Baron Guilford stood ready with a scowl on his face and his sword raised. "You may have defeated my men and hid your pet dragon. But I will surely kill you and this forest will burn if you don't turn the monster over." Gillian looked at Emory seeing fear in his eyes. She raised her own sword and whispered to Emory. "Stick with me kid. Just follow my lead." Gillian turned towards the Baron smirking, "It seems that we are experiencing a moment of confusion, my dear Baron." Gillian rushed Baron Guilford who was surprised by the quick move. Their swords crashed together with sparks. Emory knew that Gillian wouldn't be able to last against the taller and stronger Baron so he whistled loudly for Z'Rax and entered the fight with his own sword. The swords clanged often with Emory feeling the energy waning from his arm. The three separated for a moment. Emory was gasping for breath and Gillian had a gash on her arm. The Baron grinned wickedly, "It will be nice to see you two dead and have a dragon's head as a trophy." At that moment Z'Rax, now the size of a small pony, roared and charged out of the forest. The Baron hesitated by the sight of the golden dragon. Gillian took the initiative and lunged skewering the mad Baron's arm. The wounded Baron staggered back into Emory's raised sword skewering himself on the blade. Emory gasped in shock as he saw the light leave the Baron's eyes. Z'Rax closed the distance standing ready by Emory's side. Emory looked up into those golden eyes. "I've never killed a man before." Z'rax purred in sympathy. Gillian walked up wiping her sword clean. "Your going to have to get used to this boy. You and this dragon of yours are one of the hunted now. And remember, the Baron killed your uncle." Gillian sighed. "I'm sorry, Emory. But we are going to have to clean up this evidence and leave this place." Emory stood up looking at the forest. "We're never going to be able to come back here are we?" Both Emory and Gillian are startled when Z'Rax speaks to Emory for the first time without using telepathy. "We may yet, Defender. After a while, we may." Z'Rax smiled.