Sanctuary: Safe Haven

The meeting concluded with a sense of mutual respect and a shared goal. Varok, still nursing his wounds but now fully convinced of Canna's intentions, watched as Kael took the lead in finalizing the details. The atmosphere in the hut was one of cautious optimism, a stark contrast to the tension of the earlier confrontation.

Kael spoke clearly and confidently, outlining the terms of their agreement. "In exchange for guiding us to the forest where the Verdant Wardens reside, Canna will leave Vorgrim here to assist with the village's protection. Vorgrim's presence should deter any potential threats, ensuring the safety of your people while we are away."

Liora nodded, her expression thoughtful. "This arrangement is acceptable. Tiberius will guide you through the forest. His knowledge of the terrain will be invaluable."

Vorgrim, standing stoically beside Canna, showed no outward reaction, but Canna could sense his reluctance. "Vorgrim," Canna said softly, turning to his loyal subordinate. "Your duty is here now. Protect the village as you would protect me."

Vorgrim hesitated for a moment, his eyes meeting Canna's. Then, with a curt nod, he accepted the order. "I will follow your command, my liege," he said, his voice steady.

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The village buzzed with activity as preparations for the journey began. The villagers, now more comfortable with their guests, helped gather supplies. Canna and Kael received a large quantity of food, expertly prepared and designed to last the long trek. The assortment included smoked meats, dried fruits, and hearty bread, all packed carefully into containers that Canna stored in his storage ring.

Tiberius approached them, his expression serious. "The path to the Verdant Wardens' forest is treacherous," he explained. "We will be traveling through dense woods, over rocky terrain, and across rivers. It will take us seven days to reach their territory."

Canna nodded, unfazed by the daunting description. "We are ready for the journey," he said confidently. With a hint of mischief in his voice, he added, "Your guidance will be crucial, so I'll make sure you won't die early."

As the final preparations were made, Varok and Liora stood with Tiberius, offering their farewells. Liora's eyes were filled with a mixture of pride and concern. "Take care of yourself, my son," she said, her voice soft. "Guide them well and return safely."

Varok placed a hand on Tiberius's shoulder, his grip firm. "You carry our trust and our hopes with you. Show them the strength of our village."

Tiberius embraced his parents, a rare display of tenderness in the stoic warrior. "I will make you proud," he promised.

Canna watched the scene, a pang of envy stirring within him. The warmth and support of Tiberius's family hit a string in his heart. He quickly pushed the feeling aside, focusing on the task ahead.

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With their goodbyes said, the group set off, leaving the village behind. The first day of travel was relatively easy, the path still familiar to Tiberius. They walked in a loose formation, Tiberius leading, Canna and Kael following closely.

As they moved deeper into the forest, the terrain grew more challenging. The trees became denser, their thick canopies blocking out much of the sunlight. The underbrush was thick, and the ground uneven, but Tiberius navigated it with ease, his familiarity with the forest evident.

Canna found himself admiring Tiberius's skill. The barbarian moved with a grace that belied his size, his steps sure and confident. Canna's own steps were equally sure, his training and experience allowing him to keep pace effortlessly.

Kael, though not as physically imposing, kept up well. His mind, always sharp, was constantly assessing their surroundings, noting landmarks and potential hazards. "This forest is alive with magic," he remarked, his eyes scanning the area. "I can feel it in the air."

Tiberius nodded. "The Verdant Wardens are deeply connected to this land. Their magic flows through it, nourishing and protecting it. But it also means that the forest itself will test us. We must remain vigilant."

As the days passed, the journey grew more arduous. They crossed rivers, waded through marshes, and climbed rocky inclines. Each night, they made camp, taking turns keeping watch. Canna often found himself staring into the fire, his thoughts drifting to the challenges ahead.

One evening, as they sat around the campfire, Tiberius shared stories of his childhood. He spoke of his father's teachings, his mother's wisdom, and the trials he had faced to become the village's guardian. Canna listened intently, feeling a growing respect for the young warrior.

"You have a strong bond with your family," Canna observed thoughtfully. "It's a rare and precious thing."n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Tiberius smiled faintly. "They are my strength. Their belief in me drives me to be better, to protect them and our village."

Canna nodded, understanding the sentiment. "Strength comes in many forms," he said. "Your bond with your family is as powerful as any magic."

Then, with a sudden spark of curiosity, Canna asked, "Do you want to see where my strength comes from?" Tiberius, caught off guard by the question, nodded mindlessly.

Canna opened a red portal into his domain. "I'll show you," he said. Tiberius quickly went on his guard, recognizing the portal as the same one from which the black orc and the two mid-calamity boars had emerged.

"Come inside my domain. Other than Kael, you're the first human to enter," Canna said. Tiberius felt for his greatsword, steeling his nerves. Although wary, his curiosity pushed him forward. .net

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Tiberius stepped through the portal and into Canna's domain, his senses immediately overwhelmed by the surreal beauty of the place. The sky above was a mesmerizing blend of purple and yellow, casting an ethereal glow over the landscape. He had never seen a sky like this before, its otherworldly hues both awe-inspiring and disconcerting.

As he adjusted to the unusual light, his gaze fell upon the ground below. There were numerous pens, each teeming with groundhogs. They moved about with surprising coordination, their numbers staggering. Tiberius strained his eyes further and saw additional pens filled with horned hares, their sleek bodies and prominent horns a stark contrast to the groundhogs.

The sheer number of creatures left Tiberius shocked to his core. He had seen large groups of animals before, but nothing of this magnitude. The groundhogs and horned hares were countless.

He then heard a voice behind him. "Greetings, Master," Grimruk said, offering a small bow. Tiberius had seen Grimruk before, but now, up close, he could truly sense the immense power emanating from this being.