Jayr mounted the chestnut stallion and ran his hand along his mane. You have so much energy tonight, you should gallop all the way to the healer's hall. No more dilly dallying, lets show them what you have.
But I'm nearly exhausted, and my belly's full. How about a canter? My canter is still faster than most gallops, the horse pleaded.
Jayr could feel the horse had expended a lot of energy, but galloping would teach him a lesson. Besides, while he wasn't running late, he did want to discuss a lot of things and Godfrey wasn't young when Jayr was born. No, beast. I want to show off what you can do, and not with a mare either. If I had known there was one in season there, I'd have eaten elsewhere.
Fine, I'll show you a gallop! With huff, Mustard leapt out of the stable and darted through the bustling streets like a horse possessed, his dark red coat glistened in the afternoon rays of the sun. His muscles rippled as he stormed through the streets. Upon reaching the gatehouse seeing the line of people entering, with a sudden burst of energy, the chestnut stallion reared up on its hind legs, its front hooves pawing at the air. The crowd gasped, momentarily stunned by the display of raw power and grace, not knowing if they should run or watch. The stallion's mane danced in the breeze, and eyes gleamed with magic-enhanced energy contained within its domesticated-looking body.
As he descended, he glanced at the crowd blocking his path before backing away from the gatehouse then suddenly let out a surge of speed without any seeming concern for the pikemen questioning those entering, he executed an incredible leap, covering a surprising distance with a single bound. His powerful hindquarters propelled him forward, and for a suspended moment, the majestic horse seemed to defy gravity as he cleared the pikemen and nearly hit Jayr's head on the archway above. The chestnut stallion then landed with a controlled precision; the impact absorbed by his enhanced legs.
The onlookers erupted into a chorus of cheers and applause, their admiration for the magnificent creature evident in their animated expressions. The rider, dressed in healer whites, sat atop the stallion with an air of confidence as though he did this every day, hands not touching the reins of the spirited beast, only one hand touching the horse's mane giving any indication he might be holding on.
The chestnut stallion, having showcased its agility and strength, stood regally as if acknowledging the applause, his chest not even heaving, and only light sheen of sweat indicated any exertion from the impressive leap. The street was momentarily captivated by the spectacle, and the stallion becomes a temporary star in this lively medieval scene, leaving a lasting impression of the beauty and power of a creature in perfect harmony with its rider. Continuing the hectic pace through the streets, horse and rider soon found themselves at the porch to the Hall of Healers. Ha! You are here cruel master. You made an already exhausted horse wear his shoes off just because I had a good day.
Bah, you wanted to show off. With this, Jayr flicked the reigns and exerted just enough mana to cause them to tie around the post.
You enjoyed it as much as I did, the horse retorted.
Stepping through the arched entrance of the healer's hall, the atmosphere shifted from the lively bustle of the outside world to a serene sanctuary of healing. The hall was constructed entirely of weathered stone, its walls were adorned with soothing hues of earthy tones. The air within was scented with subtle herbal fragrances, creating an ambiance that speaks of care and restoration.
The evening light filtered through high windows, casting a gentle glow on the worn flagstone floor. The ceiling rising high above, supported by sturdy stone pillars adorned with intricate carvings depicting healing herbs, symbolic hands offering comfort, and other motifs emblematic of the healing arts.
Beyond the door, the entrance chamber was split into different sections, each dedicated to a specific aspect of healing. In one corner, shelves are lined with vials and jars containing herbs and salves, neatly organized and labeled. Bundles of dried herbs hang from the ceiling, their fragrant presence adding to the therapeutic aura of the space. In another section, there are treatment tables draped in clean, crisp linens. The third area was filled with books and scrolls detailing intricate procedures and spells capable of performing incredible feats of healing. The walls along the hallway leading to different rooms was adorned with tapestries depicting scenes of nature, growth, and recovery, reinforcing the theme of renewal and well-being. Informative charts and diagrams illustrating the intricate connections of the body and the pathways of healing energy were present in large numbers.
A soft murmur of conversation fills the air as healers attend to patients, offering gentle reassurances and administering remedies. The sound crackling of warm fires added a soothing backdrop, creating a sense of tranquility.
Navigating the healer's hall, the soothing ambiance and the dedicated practitioners attending to their duties always conveyed a sense of sanctuary and hope to Jayr. This is a place where ailments are tended to, and the journey towards wellness is embraced with compassion and skill. In other words, no matter what hall it was, it felt like home.
Knocking at the study door, Jayr was again told to enter. This was the master's study; a private sanctum within the healer's hall, a space where knowledge, wisdom, and the art of restoration converge. Like the rest of the hall, the air is infused with the delicate scent of dried herbs, and soft sunlight spilled through a set of large, leaded glass windows adorned with intricate patterns depicting the flow of mana throughout the body. From experience, Jayr knew this light would shift as the sunlight danced on the floor.
The study is adorned with rich, dark wooden shelves lining the walls. Each shelf holding a vast collection of ancient tomes, scrolls. A few meticulously labeled jars contained various herbs and remedies. The shelves were kept expertly organized, a testament to the hall master's dedication to organization, or perhaps, Jayr wondered, to fight an aging memory. The warm glow of light globes filled the room with warm light illuminating every inch of the shelves and desk. The effect created an inviting atmosphere for both study and contemplation.
The center of the room was occupied by a sturdy wooden desk adorned with a clutter of papers, quills, and an inkwell. A leather-bound tome lying open, its pages filled with the handwritten notes, observations, and insights gained over centuries of healing practice. A magnifying glass rests on a small stand, indicating a meticulous attention to detail or perhaps failing eyesight.
A plush, comfortable chair is strategically positioned behind the desk, which Master Godfrey immerses himself during his pursuit of knowledge. The chair is a masterful blend of form and function, designed for both comfort and aesthetic appeal, the arms elegantly curved, adding a touch of sophistication, and the seat is generously proportioned, to offer perfect comfort to the healing master while providing a regality, the sturdy, carved legs contribute to its majestic presence. A woven rug with intricate patterns cushions the floor beneath the master's throne, offering a touch of warmth and texture to the room.
In front of the desk a comfortable chair boasts plush, padded cushions upholstered in a rich, earth-toned fabric complementing the sturdy desk. Its backrest curved to provide ample support, and embrace the sitter in a cocoon of relaxation. The armrests are gently sculpted, inviting the occupant to settle in and unwind. The seat is broad and deep, allowing for a leisurely repose. The craftsmanship evident in the warm and soothing details.
The walls, adorned with botanical illustrations, detailed more in-depth maps of healing energy pathways, than those in the hallway, something only the highest-ranking healers would know. The sound of a trickling fountain added a soothing backdrop, creating a sense of tranquility, enhancing the serene atmosphere and aiding in concentration.
On one side of the room, an alcove held a collection of rare healing artifacts and tools, each with its own storied history. Crystals, dried flowers, and carefully preserved specimens are displayed alongside ceremonial instruments used in healing rituals. In a corner, a quiet reading nook provided space for reflection and study. Its collection of ancient tomes and scrolls lining the shelves, offering a wealth of knowledge on traditional healing methods and medicinal lore, things of history long replaced by magic.
Stepping further into the Healing Hall Master's study, Jayr could not help but sense a profound connection between the tangible elements in the room and the mastery of healing arts. This space serves not only as a repository of knowledge but also as a haven for the Master to reflect, research, and deepen their understanding of the intricate tapestry of health and well-being.
With a wave of his hand, mana filled the air. A white coat settled about the room thickly covering the doors and window. "Was it sent?" Asked the master healer.
"Of course, with a second dove as a backup to take a more circumventous route for security. Based on their enhancement, I expect them both to arrive by tonight and return early and late tomorrow. Something of interest, Elder, in the tavern this afternoon, I overheard two beast hunters discussing demons being slain not far from here. From his description, they were only glazu, but where there is one, there are many, and glazu are not the bottom of the barrel. This bodes ill."
The elder healer looked thoughtful for a moment before replying, "are the rifts that rife now? I thought there would be another century before we had to prepare. Have you told anyone else?"
"The king may have an inkling, primarily because of his brother. He visited him as he disappeared when the grotto took him. No one else likely knows except the fell ones." In a more uncertain voice he continued, "Athanasius, is the crippled boy, Von, the one who may bring destruction?"
"I hope not. I believe if he is sent to the grotto, he will either be absorbed, or fully healed. Either way, he will no longer be crippled and cannot be the one and please, just refer to me as elder. I gave up the name Athanasius generations before your grandparents were even thought about, on top of which, if the white council knew I was still about, they would hound me to no end."
Jayr looked directly at the elder, "Did you not try to heal the boy?"
Looking puzzled, the master healer replied, "I did. Much like you, I was unable to complete the connections to his lower body. I even borrowed Tyia's mana forcing her sleep. At least it kept her from seeing the golden glow about the boy. It did not work. This is why I feel the grotto is important for him. If he is the destruction of the world, it will take him and use his energies sometime in the future, not that he has much aura."
Nodding at this, Jayr looked puzzled as well. "When I examined his aura, it was so weak, if he could use spells at all, they wouldn't be above first circle. Shouldn't this be a sign he is nothing to worry about?"
"I don't know. Think about this. How many A-ranked hunters have gear giving them special abilities? Double-A-ranked even more, right up to and including some spell-like capabilities. It's also possible he may acquire an artifact like the prism yonder which will augment his abilities, or mayhap, his specialty will only deal with the opening of rifts and upon being kidnapped and possessed by an emperor class demon, he will be able to cause rifts wherever he goes instead of breach points. I was never able to see the future, and only after the fact have I been able to see what we should have done. It is my strong opinion, since we are both unable to heal the boy, if we fail to take Von to the grotto, he may well become the source of our destruction. I know you hide your rank behind those seven stars, but your mana says you are much more. If neither of us can heal him, this is a problem. I am no slouch, and few have ever been able to do what you can with both creatures and humanoids."
"Speaking of which, elder, there's a mare in the stables at the Pig and Pie tavern. If she foals, keep an eye on it. Mustard was mischievous earlier while under my enhancements."
Shaking his head, the elder man looked disappointed. "Again?" He paused. "I thought you only rode geldings after the last time?"
With a laugh, "He was a gelding. I healed him a little too well after he was poisoned by a molyden demons., you know, one of those ugly demons with three heads, a wolf, a snake, and a bear, with wings allowing for short hops, but no true flight capabilities. As rank seven demons, they are considered rare, but not at the lord tier yet. Anyway, I didn't realize I had repaired all of his injuries for several days. Luckily, he wasn't enhanced then."
"Children. They never learn...."
Rapidly switching subjects, the younger man inquired, "The elixir you gave me earlier seemed quite fresh. Is Drea really gone?"
"The bottle was made by a skilled artificer using an ice demon core combined with chronodemon core. This keeps things within fresh for centuries. As for Drea, I was hoping you could tell me. It wouldn't be the first time she faked her own death. Was any sign of her found?"
The two of them talked well into the night speaking of many things which had occurred over the last two centuries during which Jayr considered the irony of one magician who faked his death asking if another had as though it was something only the latter would do. How many names had he known the elder by? Six, Eight?