A Hidden Retreat - Chapter 7 (R-15)The sound of hooves accompanied by the creak of carriages echoed throughout the dark forest. A convoy of 5 wove their way through the trees on a mud ridden path. Fog swirled around them as they broke through the dense atmosphere of the forest. They were heading in a seemingly random direction with no proper road ahead of them, nevertheless the driver continued to steer the Astra's mighty steeds forward without hesitation. The normally grand carriages had no markings or emblems in sight, feebly covered in a dull brown paint. Inside the leading carriage, a man was peaking out in curiosity but his vision was obstructed by the iridescent mist.
"It's quite far into the Forest of Illusion isn't it? You really went out of your way Mona."
"Why thank you Roel-sama?. We needed to make sure nobody could even accidentally stumble into here. Even with all the security measures, there's a huge risk if unveiled." Mona said delighted.
The Forest of Illusion. A mystifying existence, buried deep into the southern edges of the Astra Fiefdom. It proves to be an integral part of the territories defense. Why you might ask? It is said that whoever wanders into the mist ridden cover of the trees will leave a moments before death. There have been many cases of generals recklessly marching their armies through the forest, only to emerge 40 years ter and pass away the very next day, without ever getting to tell their stories. The locals in the area avoid it at all costs. Considering the circumstances, it would seem suicidal for Roel to waltz into the void, but he knew something the others didn't.....and he just happened to have them on hand. Elves.
"We should be approaching the entrance by now right?"
"I believe we're already here." Leah's blonde hair danced in the wind while as she responded in her signature monotone voice.
Mona & Roel peered outside their carriage window to see the iridescent mist fluttering around their carriage as if it was alive. The bright glow of the mist gave way to a split second distortion in space followed by a blinding fsh. As Roel slowly opened his eyes, he appeared to be in a seemingly completely different location.
"Hah....Hahaha! Brilliant!"
In front of him stood a 3 story tall Fortress. It's high walls shimmering a dark blue, with surveilnce towers & archer bases located every couple meters. The gate to the fort was guarded by 2 rge, metallic doors, with 10 ground troops roaming around for inspection of anyone entering. The perimeter of the area was id with glowstone, an expensive mineral that dissipated the fog in the surroundings while also improving visibility. Truly it was a work of art. This was the culmination of Roel's efforts over the past year, the main pilr in Phase 1 of his pns. Fort Stel. Giving all the credit to Roel would be a mistake though, while he had contributed to the design and features, the actual builders of Stel were the loyal workers & servants of the Astra House.
"Hehe how do you like it Roel-sama?~" Mona chirped in happily, seeing the ecstatic look on her master's face.
"You have all outdone yourselves, it's perfect. Tonight we shall have a feast!" Roel responded with a roar.
As the dark of night fell upon Fort Stel, the soldiers were merrily dancing away, enjoying the feast Roel had gifted them. Joyous cheers and the sounds of mugs cnking could be heard echoing the cozy streets. While he would've loved to join the festivities, a noble like Roel has to uphold his image amongst his people, so he decided to retire to his quarters early. On the very top floor of the fortress stood a room unlike any other. A bed so wide it could fit 10 people, lined with silk sheets and plush amenities. A bath that looked like a mini hot-spring, lined with natural stone, and dedicated area's for washing up and then soaking. It truly was a paradise.
Roel stepped inside after dismissing his guards, they took their positions in front of the door as he made his way to the bed. Ariana was lightly dozing off in the middle, with Leah on the left side & Reah on the right. Looking at the 3 adorable dies who were exhausted from the nightly activities that had been frequent as of te, he couldn't help but feel a little guilty about going too hard on them. Not wanting to wake the sleeping beauties, he quietly beckoned Mona over.
"How may I help you Master? ?" Mona said cutely, her cute ears flicking up and down curiously.
"Well....as you can see..." Roel awkwardly eyed the dies on the bed before looking at Mona.
"Awwn Master you go too hard on them, but then again that's exactly what they like ?, don't worry I understand hehe~?"
Roel made his way over to a couch next to the bed and sat down in his robes before Mona slowly undid her maid uniform. A second ter, a bck & white dress fell to the ground before the cute cat-maid got on her knees to service her master. Trying to muffle Mona's moans was....difficult to say the least.
Urmomisdum
