Chereads / A ray in the dark Kingdom / Chapter 3 - First trip

Chapter 3 - First trip

Quirrell left his home village. His journey had just begun, and he felt a mixture of excitement and anxiety. The road to the first city, Redporg, was long and tiring, but Quirrell did not stop. He knew that great adventures awaited him. When he finally reached Redporg, he was greeted by high stone walls surrounding the city. Narrow streets paved with cobblestones led to the central square, where a large fountain towered. Ancient buildings with red roofs created an atmosphere of antiquity and comfort. The central square was lively and noisy. There was a market here, where various goods were sold: from fresh fruit and vegetables to fabrics and jewelry. People hurried about their business, creating a bustle that seemed an integral part of the life of the city. The square also housed a large stone cathedral with tall stained glass windows that reflected the sunlight, creating colorful patterns on the ground. Near the cathedral stood a statue of the city's founder, proudly raising his sword to the sky. Quirrell decided to walk through the streets to get to know the city better. He noticed that many of the houses were decorated with flowers, which added bright colors to the stone walls. In some courtyards, children were playing, laughing and running around. On one of the streets, Quirrell found a small park with benches and a fountain in the center. It was quieter here, and people were resting, enjoying the silence and beauty of nature. The park was surrounded by trees that created a pleasant shade on a hot day. Quirrell decided to visit the local tavern to better understand the life of the inhabitants of Redporg. He approached the wooden door, from which came the sounds of laughter and conversation. Opening the door, he went inside and immediately felt the warmth coming from the large fireplace in the corner. The tavern was cozy and welcoming. Wooden tables and benches were arranged throughout the hall, and the walls were adorned with old paintings and hunting trophies. The air smelled of roasting meat and fresh bread. Quirrell noticed that most of the tables were occupied by locals, who were chatting and sharing stories. Quirrell walked over to the bar, where the innkeeper was standing, a tall man with a thick beard and friendly eyes.

"Hello, young man!" the innkeeper greeted him. "What would you like to drink or eat?"

"Hello," Quirrell replied, smiling. "I'm new to this town and would like to learn more about Redporg. Perhaps you could recommend something tasty and tell me a little about the town?" The innkeeper nodded and poured Quirrell a mug of local ale.

"Sit down, young man," he said, pointing to an empty table by the fireplace. "I'll bring you our best food and tell you everything I know." Quirrell sat down at the table and began to look around the tavern. The people around him seemed friendly and open. He could hear snippets of conversation about the harvest, the weather, and the latest news from other cities. Soon the host returned with a plate of roasted meat, vegetables, and fresh bread. He sat down next to Quirrell and began to tell his story:

"Redporg is an ancient city with a rich history. Great warriors and wise rulers once lived here. Our city is famous for its artisans and merchants. Many travelers stop here to rest and gain strength before their further journey." Quirrell listened with interest, enjoying his delicious food. The host continued:

"We have many legends and stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. For example, there is said to be an old wise man in our forests who knows all the secrets of the world. And there is also a legend of a treasure hidden somewhere in the mountains nearby. Quirrell felt his imagination running wild. He had always loved to hear stories of adventure and mystery.

"That is very interesting," he said. "Perhaps I can learn more about these legends during my stay here." The innkeeper smiled and nodded.

"Of course, young man. Our town is always happy to welcome new friends and travelers. If you need help or advice, come to me or to any of the residents. We are always ready to help." Quirrell felt that he had found new friends and allies in this town. He knew that his journey was just beginning, and that many discoveries and adventures lay ahead. But for now, he was happy to simply enjoy the warmth and hospitality of Redporg. Quirrell felt his heart fill with warmth from the hospitality of the people of Redporg. He continued his conversation with the innkeeper, learning more about the town and its history.

"What can you tell us about the local craftsmen?" Quirrell asked, taking a bite of his roast beef. "Our craftsmen are renowned far beyond Redporg," the innkeeper replied.

"We have craftsmen who make the finest swords and armor, as well as jewelers who create incredible jewelry. Many of them work in their workshops, which can be found on Craftsman Street." Quirrell was intrigued and decided that he would definitely visit this street. He also learned that the town had several schools that taught various crafts and arts.

"What do you know about the old sage who lives in the forest?" asked Quirrell, recalling one of the legends."They say he has lived there for many years and knows all the secrets of the world. Some people go to him for advice, but finding him is not so easy. He only appears to those who really need his help." Quirrell felt his curiosity grow. He decided that he would try to find this wise man if he had the chance. After a delicious dinner and an interesting conversation, Quirrell thanked the innkeeper and went for a walk through the town. He walked through the narrow streets, admiring the ancient buildings and flowering gardens. At every step he felt the spirit of history and tradition that made Redporg so special. As the evening began to fall, Quirrell returned to the inn, where he was offered a room for the night. He lay down on the soft bed and, looking at the ceiling, thought about everything he had learned that day. His journey was just beginning, and he was ready for new discoveries and adventures. Quirrell lay down on the soft bed and, looking up at the ceiling, thought about everything he had learned that day. His thoughts were full of impressions and new knowledge. "This city is really special," he thought. "So many stories, so many legends. And these people… They are so hospitable and friendly. I feel like there is more to this place than just old buildings and craftsmen." He remembered the tavern keeper's story about the old sage in the forest. "I wonder if I can find him? Maybe he can help me understand more about this world and my journey." Quirrell also thought about the craftsmen and their workshops. "I will definitely visit the Street of Craftsmen. Maybe I can learn something new or find something useful for my journey." His thoughts returned to the inhabitants of the city. "These people deserve peace and safety. If I can help them, I will do my best." Quirrell felt his eyes begin to close. "Tomorrow will be a new day, new discoveries and adventures. I am ready for whatever lies ahead." With these thoughts he fell asleep, feeling calm and confident in his abilities. His journey had just begun, and he was ready for whatever challenges fate would bring him. With these thoughts he fell asleep, feeling calm and confident in his abilities. His journey had just begun, and he was ready for whatever challenges fate would bring him. But the morning brought unexpected trouble. Quirrell woke up early, feeling rested and ready for a new day. He quickly gathered himself and went down to the tavern, where the innkeeper was already preparing breakfast for the guests. But something was wrong. The atmosphere in the tavern was tense, and people spoke in whispers, with anxiety in their eyes.

"What happened?" Quirrell asked the innkeeper, who looked worried.

"Trouble, young man," the innkeeper replied, wiping his hands on a towel. "Something strange happened to our stones tonight. They started glowing and making strange sounds. No one knew what it meant, but everyone was very scared." Quirrell felt his heart clench with anxiety. "This could be dangerous," he thought. "I must learn more and help the people of the town."

"How can I help?" he asked firmly. The innkeeper looked at him hopefully.

"We would appreciate any help," he said.

"The mayor and his men are already trying to figure out what happened, but every extra pair of eyes would be useful." Quirrell nodded and headed for the central square, where the townspeople were already gathered, discussing the strange events. He knew it would be no easy task, but he was willing to do whatever he could to help the town and its people. Quirrell hurried to the central square, where the townspeople had already gathered, discussing the strange events. As he got closer, he saw an incredible sight: stones that had previously been lying on the ground were now flying through the air, forming strange patterns. People stood around, watching the phenomenon with alarm. Quirrell felt his heart begin to beat faster. He drew his sword, trying to understand what was happening. And suddenly the stones began to move even faster, as if reacting to his presence.

"It's because of your sword," a voice said from behind him. Quirrell turned and saw an old man in a long cloak. His face was wrinkled, but his eyes were bright with wisdom and knowledge. He was the same sage from the legend that the tavern owner had told him about.

"Who are you?" Quirrell asked, feeling his curiosity grow.

"I am the one you were looking for," the sage replied. "I know why the stones fly. It's because of your sword. It has a special power that awakens ancient magical artifacts." Quirrell looked at his sword with new understanding. He had always known that this sword was not simple, but he had no idea that it could cause such phenomena.

"What should I do?" he asked.

"You need to learn to control this power," the sage said. "I can help you, but it won't be easy. Are you ready for it?" Quirrell felt his heart clench with surprise. The sage, who had just promised to help, suddenly drew his staff and began to attack him. Quirrell barely had time to raise his sword to repel the first blow.

"What are you doing?" Quirrell exclaimed, trying to understand why the sage had suddenly become an enemy. "This is a test," the sage replied, without pausing. "You must prove yourself worthy of this power." Quirrell gathered all his strength and began to defend himself. Blow after blow, he parried the sage's attacks, trying to find a weak spot in his defenses. The stones around them continued to fly, creating chaos and adding tension to the battle. The sage was fast and agile, but Quirrell did not retreat. He concentrated on his movements, trying to predict his opponent's next move. Each blow was precise and powerful, but the sage did not give up. "You must learn to control your power," the sage said, delivering another blow. "Otherwise, it will destroy you." Quirrell felt his anger and determination grow. He remembered all the stories he had heard of great warriors and their exploits. He knew he had to be strong and not give up. Gathering all his strength, Quirrell delivered a powerful blow that forced the sage to retreat. He seized the moment and attacked again, this time with even greater determination. The sage fell to the ground, but smiled.

"You have proven your strength," he said, rising. "Now you are ready to learn to control it." But suddenly Quirrell stopped and looked at the sage with suspicion.

"No," he said firmly. "I do not trust you. You attacked me without warning. How can I be sure that you will not betray me again?" The sage sighed, but his eyes remained calm.

"It was necessary to test your resolve," he replied. "But if you do not trust me, we can continue the battle." Quirrell raised his sword again, ready to fight. The sage also prepared himself, and the battle continued with renewed vigor. Quirrell attacked first, delivering quick and precise blows. The sage repelled them with his staff, moving at incredible speed. The stones around them continued to fly, creating chaos and adding tension to the battle.

— You must learn to control your power, — said the sage, striking another blow. — Destroy? Ahahahaha what are you talking about, I'm sure I can figure it out myself, and the fact that you are called a legend is just a lie. I'm new to the city, I immediately began to distrust the seller from the tavern because there is confusion in his words. The sage smiled.

— Aren't you a stupid boy, I underestimated you, do you have any more arguments to convince me that you are not ordinary? — Haha I am ordinary, you are wrong, but I have arguments, they told me that you were just sitting in the forest and you immediately appear, thank your people that they "did not let" you be discovered. I need to go further, this is only the beginning of the city, I will see what happens next. Quirrell was attacked again by the sage, but he knocked him to the ground with one blow. — If you climb again, you will no longer smell stones, but your own blood. The tavern keeper looked at this and shouted:

— You monster, what kind of idiot holds the kingdom.

— You call this kingdom? It fell apart, I'm sure it was different before. As soon as Quirrell left the square, he noticed that the stones had fallen while he was fighting the sage. Quirrell walked on.

— Hmm, what awaits me next.