Author's Note:
Hi everyone! Here's a new chapter for you to read. I managed to catch up witht he December chapter. Hope you like it. As always, thanks for supporting the story. Have a great day!
Chapter 15: The Holy Capital
Stella's Perspective:
From above, the Morning Star shines faintly as the rays of light from sun peek over the horizon, slowly illuminating the streets. It was the dawn of our leave, three days have passed since my stay in this bountiful town, Tilden. I have partied up with a rowdy acquaintance, Chrome Donovan, and his companions, Xander Crux, an elite guard, and Cupa Mishal, a friend of mine and the princess of the Creeper Kingdom.
I stood quietly waiting in front of the stables my horse resides while waiting for my companions to arrive. We planned on leaving earlier the other day but it seems that they're running late. "What's taking them so long?" I muttered, impatiently. A few minutes later, the three of them arrived. They were 30 minutes late, lovely.
After seeing them, I walked up to Chrome and asked, "I thought we decided that we'll meet here at 5:30 in the morning? It's already 6 for crying out loud. Do you people have any sense of time at all?" and waited for his response. Chrome just looked at me and sighed, "Ask your friend over there the details. I still have to get our carriage and horses..." he replied, groggily.
"No retorts and jokes? That's weird..." I thought. I then watched Chrome wander into the stables, leaving Xander, Cupa, and I alone outside. So I turn my attention to Xander who was carrying a drowsy Cupa. "Is that the reason why you were late?" I asked. Xander nodded, "Yeah... It's difficult waking her up in the morning." he said. I nodded as well, "I know what you mean. Cupa was never a morning person." I told him.
"Right? Wait! How do you know that?" Xander asked. "Well, I am friends with her. We've known each other we were kids." I reminded him. He let out a fake laugh, "Oh yeah. I forgot you two know each other." he said. "It's fine. I don't blame you for it. We have just met recently." I reassured him. "Thanks." he said.
"Anyway... I've been wondering..." I trailed off. Xander tilted his head, "Wondering about what?" he asked. "I've been wondering what you're actual relationship with Cupa is?" I asked. His expression turned to shock, "W-what are you talking about? I'm just a regular guard on a mission. My relationship with her is merely client and contractor." he replied.
I raised a brow towards Xander, "Is that so? Because that isn't what it looks like to me." I told him. "What made led you to say that?" he asked me, nervously. "Simple really. Cupa never got this close to guys. Sure she was the outgoing type of girl. However, even amongst the young nobles she would never show this side of her." I told him.
"Isn't that normal? You don't typically show your vulnerable self to others unless you trust them a great deal. You only show that side of you to your friends and family." Xander explained. "There you have it. That's you're answer." I told him. "Huh? What are you talking about?" he asked me with a rather confused look.
I rolled my eyes, "What else? It's your answer to my question, of course! Gosh, you're dense." I said. It took him a while to get it but he eventually did, "Oh. I see." he replied. "Do you get it now? So when someone asks you what your relationship with her is, you answer?" I asked. He sighed, "I'll say that she's a friend." he replied. I smiled, "Good! Same goes for me. You can call me a friend as well." I told him. He smiled, "Sure thing. I'll do that." he told me.
"By the way. Can I ask you something?" Xander asked. "Sure thing. Ask away." I told him. "Okay then. So do you mind telling me what you're relationship with Chrome is?" he asked. I stepped back a bit upon hearing his question, "Huh? What do you mean?" I asked. "Well, you and Chrome seem real close. I was just wondering if you are friends or something." he said.
"Oh. That's what you meant." I said. "Of course that's what I meant. What were you thinking?" Xander asked. My face then turned red after recalling somethings in the past, "N-nothing. A-anyway, what was it you were asking again?" I asked him. "I was just wondering what you're relationship with Chrome is?" he asked.
I cleared my throat, "To be honest, the two of us are just acquaintances and-" I said. "Just acquaintances? And here I thought we were more than that!" Chrome suddenly interrupted. I turned to face him, "Just what are you trying to imply here, Mr. Donovan?" I asked. "Have you really forgotten the things we've done together? Oh how I even remember that one night when- Hmph!" I stopped him from continuing by covering his mouth.
"Okay, I get it! Now will you stop it?! People might get the wrong idea here." I scolded him before uncovering his mouth. Chrome chuckled, "I'll stop for now." he said. I sighed, "Sorry about that. I really do hate it when he does that." I apologized to Xander. "It's fine. But judging from what I'm seeing. Your relationship is more than just acquaintances but less than being a friend." he said. I nodded, "Good observation, Xander." I complimented him.
"Just like you said we are not friends not acquaintances. We're what you call partners or teammates. I like to keep things professional unlike Mr. Donovan..." I paused and glared daggers at him. "What? I keep things professional as well. I just like to...spice things up a little." he said. I sighed, "Anyway, there you have it." I told Xander.
"Well, I'm glad I got to know more of you and Chrome." Xander told us. "Also did you manage to get our carriage, Chrome?" he added. Chrome nodded, "Yup! They're about to bring it out for us." he said. "Have you paid already?" Xander asked. "What do you think?" Chrome asked him back. "I'm guessing you already did." Xander replied. "Ain't it obvious?" Chrome asked. Xander sighed, "I was just making sure...nothing wrong with that..." he muttered.
After a short while, some staff members brought out my horse. I was first to arrive so I had them ready my horse. I was handed the lead before the staff entered the building. Following that, some of the staff brought out what is probably their carriage along with their horses. Chrome and Xander thanked the staff before getting on the carriage. However, Cupa was still asleep so Xander had to gently carry her into the carriage without waking her. I have to admit, he was very careful and gentle with her.
When Cupa was finally sleeping peacefully inside, the two men made sure the carriage was in top condition before getting up front. Once they were ready, I got on my horse and we began our way out of town and back on the road. Around two hours after we left town was when Cupa finally woke up. She seriously is a sleepy head for someone who's so energetic.
From outside the carriage, I saw the sleepy head get up groggily before realising that she was inside the carriage. She looked around and then finally saw me outside. Cupa then opened the window to greet me. "Hi, Stella!" she happily greeted. "Hello and good morning, sleepy head." I replied, "Did you have a good sleep?" I added.
Cupa smiled brightly, "Of course! I now feel super energetic and hype! I could beat up a band of pillagers easily if I could right now." she announced. "That is only when it is necessary. If the three of us can handle it, then you don't need to do anything." Xander told her from the driver's window. "Boo!" she said with a thumbs down. "Don't you 'boo' me. Remember what we talked about?" Xander told her.
Cupa then pouted and slouched on her seat with her arms crossed. I chuckled from the sight of it. I have never seen her like this before, it looks like Xander had made an impact on her. "I'm glad that she's not forcing herself to smile and be happy..." I thought with a smile. Next thing I knew, she was by the window near me, peering outside and looking at me.
"You seem to be in a good mood~" Cupa said with a grin. "Did something good happen to you?" she asked. "You could say that." I replied. She raised her brow, "Oh? Is it somewhat related to Chrome?" she asked. Her question caught me off-guard and I nearly fell off my horse. "W-what are you talking about, Cupa?!" I asked her, feeling rather panicked.
"Well... With Chrome around, you seem to be different. You're not your usual self, you know? You usually don't take orders from strangers and you often take the lead and stuff. But this time is different... Is it because of Chrome?" Cupa asked. "Nonsense! I'm perfectly myself. This has nothing to do with Chrome at all." I told her. She smiled, "Really? You look a bit flustered though..." she pointed out.
I was in disbelief that such topic would make me flustered, so I took out a mini mirror from my bag and checked. I was rather flustered. "So? Am I right?" Cupa asked. I quickly put the mirror away and told her "It's just the sun. The heat is just getting to me!" before riding on ahead. As I did, I could hear her chuckling from behind. The nerve of that girl!
Now as I moved ahead of them, Chrome noticed me speeding up and ofertaking the carriage. "Hey, Stella! What's the hurry?" he asked. "I'm going to scout ahead. Don't worry mind me." I replied. "Suit yourself. Just don't get to far ahead of us, okay?" he told me. "I know that already. No need to tell me." I replied and sped up some more.
And as I said, I scouted ahead and saw nothing to worry about. The day went on smoothly without any troubles.
Cupa's Perspective:
When Stella suddenly sped up after our little conversation, I couldn't help but chuckle at her response. "She really need to be honest with her feelings..." I muttered as I watched her go on ahead. Soon enough, she was out of sight and I was bored. So I opened up the window behind the rider's seat and decided to bother the two guys.
"Hey, Xander! Where are we going next?" I asked. He turned to face me, "Our next destination is the Kingdom of Prescotta, the Holy Capital." he replied. "Ooh! That place sounds interesting! Can't wait to get there!" I said. "It is an interesting place, however, they aren't friendly towards humobs like you, Cupa." he explained.
"Ehhh? Why not? Did we do something bad to them?" I asked him. Chrome sighed, "If that we're only the case. Sadly, it's not like that. They're not on good terms with humobs because that is what their belief states. They think humobs are an abomination of nature and such." he explained. "Well that sucks!" I said. Chrome chuckled, "Indeed it is." he agreed.
"If they don't like humobs then why are we going there?" I asked. "We could have gone a different route and avoided the capital if possible. However, the other route has some troublesome issues along it's path which is why we need to go through the city itself." Xander said. "So what will I do? I'm a humob and they don't like me. What's the plan?" I asked. "Just wear a different attire before we enter the city." he told me.
"That's it? Wear something else?" I asked. Xander nodded, "It is the minimal requirement you need to do so you won't be recognized. Humob products aren't sold and worn in that place, meaning you're hoody needs to be set aside for now." he said. I chuckled, "Good thing I bought new clothes. One's that are made not by humobs." I said. "I guess that's some good timing that you two went on a shopping date." Chrome said.
Xander punched his companion on the shoulder, "Like I said, it wasn't a date." he told him. "Whatever makes you sleep at night, buddy." Chrome nonchalantly replied. "Anyway, it's a good thing you bought new clothes. Now we wouldn't worry about getting caught or having you ridiculed inside the city." Xander said with a worried tone. "Awww~ Thanks for looking out for me, Xander." I told him.
Chrome had a cheeky grin as he kept nudging Xander who looked rather red. "You okay, Xander? You're face looks a bit red?" I asked him. "I-It's nothing, Cupa. I just feel a bit hot that is... I'm fine." he insisted. "Really? Okay then. But if you ever need anything, you can count on me." I told him proudly. "Thanks, Cupa. I appreciate it. Now if you please, I would like to focus on the road." he told me. I nodded and closed the window again. From inside the carriage, I could see Chrome nudging him again. Those two really are good friends.
With the little conversation over, the long journey continues without much excitement other than my occasional conversations with the two drivers. Soon enough, night came and it was time for dinner. Nothing much happened as well, we just are and talked a little before sleeping. Stella and I slept in the carriage together, as I insisted by Chrome. And soon enough, Stella fell asleep before me.
With her sleeping, I decided to sneak out of the carriage and walk around. We were currently in an open field, so beneath us was a clear, starry sky. I just had to walk under it. As I was about to do so, something caught my attention. In the distance, there was smoke rising up. "Seems like something I should investigate." I muttered. And without a second thought, I approached the source of the smoke.
"I wonder if there is someone else camping out here in the open?" I thought as I stealthily approached the source. I did my best not to make a sound while moving through the grass which was a total walk in the park. I am part creeper so being quiet is no problem. Anyway, I slowly closed in on the location of the smoke. Soon enough, I had arrived at my destination where I quietly brushed aside some grass so I can see what's going on.
Beyond the patch of grass, there was a cleared out area of grass and a campfire in the center of it all. "What should I do..." someone muttered. I turned to my right and noticed a silhouette of a person sitting by the campfire, his back turned towards me. Judging from the voice, it sounded like a guy and he sounds troubled. "I wonder what's troubling him?" I thought as I continuously stared at the person.
The guy then sighed, "I guess I'll think about it after I eat..." he said as he took out a potato from the nearby campfire with a stick. From where I was standing, the wind was blowing towards me which means I could smell the potato. It smelled a little buttery and delightful, I could only guess what it tasted like. "Should I ask for some?" I pondered on the thought of it.
However, it seemed my body was the one in charge at the time. As I thought of that cooked potato, my stomach grumbled loudly. Loud enough for someone to hear in the dead of night. The person must have heard it since he stood up and pointed his blade towards my location. It seems he hasn't seen me yet, although he knows where I am. "Shows yourself! Whoever you are!" he demanded.
He didn't sound friendly at all, so I decided to turn tail and run. At least, that's what I hoped to do. In my attempt to flee, I tripped on a root behind me and lands with a loud thud. "Looks like it came from there..." the guys said as I heard him approach me. "This looks bad. Oh well~ If push comes to shove, I'll just fight back." I thought as I heard the footsteps get closer.
Soon enough, the guys pushed aside the tall grass and pointed a torch at me. "Hey there, fellow traveller! What brings you here?" I asked. "Cupa?" the guy asked. "Wait a second! How do you know my name? Are you a stalker perhaps?" I asked. The guy then chuckled, "And here I thought it was something else..." he said. "What are you talking about? Do I know you?" I asked. He chuckled and neared the torch to his face, "I don't blame you for not recognizing me since it's dark..." Xander said with a smile.
Xander's Perspective:
Okay, I didn't expect Cupa to see me in this cleared out area. I really thought she was asleep at the time I left the carriage. If you're wondering why I did leave, it's due to the fact that I needed some...alone time. Some time to think slowly and clearly of the things that had transpired to me. However, it doesn't look like that's how things will go but whatever. Right now, I need to take care of the current situation.
"Looks like you didn't recognize me, Cupa." I told her. "It was you all along, Xander?! And here I thought the author was going to introduce a new character." she said. "Well, that won't happen for a while. Maybe after 1 or 2 chapters..." I said. "Sad." she muttered. I reached out my hand, "Need some help?" I asked. She nodded, "Yup!" she replied and grabbed my hand before I pulled her up. She dusted herself before giving me a confused look. "Why don't we take a seat first?" I suggested.
So, just as I said, Cupa and I took a seat around the campfire where I offered her some of the potatoes I was cooking. "Finally!" she stated happily. "I am guessing the sound I heard was your stomach growling?" I asked. Her faced suddenly turned red before she faced away, "It smelled good, okay?" she said. I chuckled, "I understand. Just be careful, it's still hot." I warned her.
Soon enough, both of us were munching on the potatoes I had cooked and managed to finish them all. By all I mean 4 reasonable sized ones, 2 for each of us. And when our hunger was satiated, Cupa gave me a look that meant she needed some answers. I sighed, "I'm assuming that you're wondering what I'm doing here, right?" I said. She let out an awkward giggle and scratched the back of her head, "Well, I am curious about all this..." she replied, looking around her.
"Understandable. You see, I have two reasons as to why I'm out here in the fields. However, I am unable to tell you the second one." I told her. "Why not? Is it something embarrassing or...lewd?" Cupa joked. I shook my head, "It's neither of those, sad to say." I replied. "Then what is it?" she asked. "I don't think I can tell you or anyone about it yet. I'm still...uncertain about it's reliability." I replied.
"Why can't you? Do you not trust us?" Cupa asked, looking worried. I tried smiling, "It's not that I don't trust you people. It's just that openly stating it without solid proof is a major crime in every kingdom." I explained. She laughed and punched my arm, "Surely you're joking, right?" she asked. I shook my head, "I guarantee that I'm not. Sorry but I believe I can't tell you." I said, sadly.
I feel like I'm doing Cupa wrong like this. After she openly told me her problems, I can't even tell her mine. It's probably for the best in my current situation. If openly tell her that I might be a member of the Paladins, it may complicate things. I looked down in shame, "Sorry. I know that I'm acting like a jerk here. You know, not telling you my problem when you easily told me yours." I apologised.
It was quiet for a minute, at least it was, until I was suddenly knocked off my seat with a powerful pat on the back. "Stop apologising, Xander. It's fine, I get it. You're not yet ready to let it out and that's perfectly fine." Cupa told me. "Really?" I asked. "Of course, silly head! It's perfectly fine. Just promise me that when you feel like talking about it, you'll talk to me first. Okay?" she said. I got up and smiled, "Sure. I'll do just that when I'm ready." I told her. It seems that Cupa has broke the ice easily and...possibly my back as well.
"Thanks for understanding, Cupa." I told her. She smiled, "That's what friend are for, right? Also, when I told you my problem, it was because I felt that I was ready to let it out. So don't think that you're being an ass, okay?" she explained. I nodded, "Okay. I'll remember that." I replied. "By the way, did I hit you to hard?" she asked. "What made you say that?" I asked. "Well, you are rubbing your back carefully." She pointed out.
"I guess there's no point in hiding this problem..." I joked. Cupa giggled, "I guess you're right. Also, sorry for hitting you hard." she apologised. "No, it's okay. This is nothing major. Don't worry, it should get better in a minute or two." I told her, continuing to rub it. "Want me to massage it?" she asked. "I humbly decline. You don't have to do that. Just hang tight and sit pretty." I told her.
After a while, my back was feeling much better. I stood up and stretched a little to make sure things were better and to extinguish the campfire. "There we go!" I stated. "You feeling better, Xander?" Cupa asked. I nodded, "Yeah, I'm feeling better." I passed to yawn, "A little sleepy a well..." I added. "I guess we should get back now." she suggested. "I agree. Let's go then." I told her before walking ahead. "Hold up!" she told me.
I turn stopped walking to turn around, and when I did, I warm hug was what greeted me. Her embrace sent jolts throughout my body, not because she accidentally pressed my previously damaged back but because it was so sudden that it shocked me. "Ummm...Cupa?" I asked. She then let go, took a step back, and smiled. "I know that you're troubled and maybe confused with your dilemma. However, do remember that I'm rooting for you." she encouraged me.
I don't know if I looked like some crazed psycho but I was probably grinning like a monkey from what she said. "Thank you. I appreciate it." I said. "Well, we should get going. Lead the way." Cupa told me. I nodded and we started walking our way back to the carriage where we returned to bed and slept after a semi-eventful evening. But before I could sleep, Cupa exited the carriage and approached my sleeping bag. "By the way, what was your first reason for? You didn't tell me." she asked.
I chuckled, "It's quite simple. I wanted to gaze at the stars and eat something while I'm at it." I told her. Cupa giggled at my response, "Looks like I guessed right." she said. I yawned, "Looks like you did. Now what do you say we have some shut eye now?" I suggested. She nodded, "Sure thing. Well then, good night!" she said before walking back into the carriage. It was quiet once again so it didn't take long for me to doze off.
Without realizing it, morning had come and two of my companions were already awake. "Looks like you're finally awake." Chrome said. I groggily got out of my sleeping bag, "I guess it's morning already..." I muttered. "What gave it away?" he asked. I rolled my eyes, "Lovely. Early morning shenanigans..." I said as I stretched.
"Oh! Xander is already awake?" a familiar voice said. Coming out of the tall grass, Stella came waltzing out. "Hey, Stella. Good morning!" I greeted her. She smiled, "Good morning to you too." she said before walking to the carriage. I began tidying up my stuff and putting it in the carriage compartment so that we can get going.
As I put my stuff inside the compartment, I could see Cupa was still sleeping inside. I let out a sigh and gently close the door so she wouldn't wake up. It didn't take long for the three of us to get ready, so we were able to get back on the road relatively quickly. Now to speed things up, I don't think I need to tell you every single thing that occurred during the trip to Prescotta. I mean it'd be pretty boring since it would just be a repetition of travel, eat, sleep, and repeat. Although there would be the occasional mob attacks at night that's not much interesting, considering that Chrome and I could finish them off quickly.
Anyway, I'm going to fast forward several days later, probably around the time we approached the national border. Okay then, so here we go. After several days on the road and several nights under the stars, we have finally reached the border where the tollgates await us. You might be wondering what might this tollgate be? Put it simply, this is where people pay the toll fee to leave or enter a country.
Now, where was I? Oh right! I was talking about crossing the border via tollgates. So as I was saying, our carriage was slowly approaching the gates which is why I prepared the needed fee for us four. At the gate, several armed guards blocked the path across while the collector of fees was stationed at a little outpost located just before the gate.
So we stopped by the collector to pay the fee before entering the nations' border. "Good day, gentlemen. Going to Prescotta, I presume?" the collector greeted us. "Indeed, sir. We are on our way to the capital city." I told him. "What might be your business in the holy capital?" he asked. "We are just passing by, sir. We only intend to stay a few days there to rest before continuing our journey. We did intend to pass through the traders route but I heard that there is some trouble near that area." Chrome told him.
The collectors' face suddenly wrinkled, "You're indeed correct, young man." he said, "There is some trouble near that route and I believe it has reached the near capital as well..." he added. Hearing this piqued my curiosity, "By trouble, what do you exactly mean?" I asked. He sighed, "I'm not entirely sure but words has it that Herobrines' followers are involved." he said.
"What? His followers are in the capital?!" I exclaimed. "No, no! That's not what I meant. I just said that the trouble is near the capital and not inside. I assure that the city guards will keep you safe." he explained to me. I sighed, "And here I thought that we might end up running into serious trouble..." I muttered. "Don't we always?" Chrome butted in. I elbowed him in the side, "Don't say it like that." I told him off. "What? I ain't wrong. Am I?" he said.
The collector chuckled, "Nevertheless, you will be safe I did the capital. However, I will tell you that due to the ongoing dilemma beyond the city walls, crossing the borders of Ysanctia and Stanton are momentarily prohibited." he told us. "No way. How long will it take though?" I asked. He shook his head, "I'm not entirely sure. Sorry." he said. Chrome sighed, "Anyway, we can't do anything about it. We just have to bare with it for now." he said.
I nodded, "I guess you're right... Thanks for telling us, sir." I said. The collector smiled, "Just doing part of my job. And speaking of jobs, how many of you will be crossing the border?" he asked. "Oh! Four people will be. That would be this guy, the girl on the horse, the girl inside the carriage, and me." I said, pointing at each person respectively. The collector looks at all of us and writes it down before collecting our fees.
With that over, we were finally able to cross the border and head towards our destination. Now as we travelled down the path, things started to get a little chilly until it eventually started snowing gently, piling up slowly around us. This was a good sign since the kingdom is located up north. Cupa immediately opened the window to get an even clearer view of the frozen wonder.
"Oh wow! Snow! It's snow, Xander! Look!" Cupa yelled happily. I chuckled, "First time seeing snow?" I asked. "Not really. But I do love the snow. It's so white, fluffy, and cold. You can make snowmen, have snowball fights, and enjoy hot cocoa by the fireplace!" she said excitedly. Suddenly, she sneezed loudly. "And a great time to wear something warm, right?" I said. "I forgot about that..." she muttered.
"Well then. Way don't we stop first and get changed for the cold." Chrome suggested as he looked at Stella, "Especially when some people are still wearing shorts while riding on horseback." he added. "You know I can hear you." Stella said. "And that's why I was saying it. Good. Now go get changed before you catch a cold in that outfit of yours." he told her.
So we pulled over the side of the road to get changed. Chrome and I ha no trouble quickly changing into our winter attire: warm coats and pants paired with snow shoes. The only difference between us was that Chrome wore a beanie while I chose to wear a scarf. Now with both of us dressed warmly, we won't feel too cold.
After a while, Stella stepped out of the carriage wearing the same with parka, however, she now wore some fur pants, snow shoes, and a fuzzy gray hat. "That's better." she said. Chrome whistled, "Well, you certainly look comfy in that attire." he said. "Nice new hat, Stella." I said. "I'll believe that the other response was a compliment. So, thank you." she said.
"Awww. Thanks, Stella." Chrome kindly(?) said. "For some reason, hearing you say that makes me feel annoyed." Stella said. "So you like it when I talk dirty to you? Are you a Masochist perhaps?" he asked. Out of nowhere, a snowball came flying past me and hit Chrome on the face. "That's what you get, pervert!" Stella exclaimed. The snow slowly fell off my buddy's face, revealing a mischievous grin.
"So that's how we're playing..." Chrome said as he threw a snowball at Stella. It landed salt on her face, "Now you've done it." she said while making another snowball. "Bring it on, Tsun-tsun!" he announced, doing the same as Stella. "Looks like they're going to start a snowball fight..." I thought, carefully moving back as to not disturb their fight.
Suddenly, the door of the carriage burst open as an energetic individual jumps out. "Hurray! There's snow everywhere!" Cupa stated happily. "Oh! You changed your entire look, Cupa." I said, noticing the change in her outfit. She now wore a green turtleneck sweater paired with dark blue pants, much warmer brown gloves, and a white, fuzzy, ear mops.
"Does it look weird on me?" Cupa asked. I shook my head, "Not at all. You look really nice in that." I told complimented her. She smiled, "Thanks! I really thought that it wouldn't look good on me though." she said. "Don't worry. It looks great on you." I said, "After all, I was the one who bought that. I did notice she didn't have any winter attire with her..." I thought.
"It's really odd though... I don't remember buying these clothes. Could they have accidentally gave me someone else attire?" Cupa said. "Perhaps. But talk about lucky that you got some winter clothes mixed in with what you bought..." I said. "Very lucky! I don't even have winter clothes. Good thing this happened. Right, Xander?" she asked. I nodded, "Good thing indeed." I said, "Good thing I noticed... If not, she would have been freezing by now." I thought.
Suddenly, a snowball hit the back of my head. "Ooh! Snowball fight!" Cupa announced and quickly threw one at me, this time in front of my face. She threw it so hard that I lost balance and fell down on my back. "Oww! I didn't know snow could hurt so much." I muttered. The creeper girl chuckled, "Well, now you know. And if you don't want to keep getting hit, I suggest you stand back up and fight." she said. I smiled, "You're on!" I told her.
And so, four idiots began fighting in the snow for an hour or so until we were tired and cold. With us out of breath and the cold getting to us, we decided to stop and have some hot cocoa for a while. It didn't take long for us to finish our drinks, so we were able to get back on the road once again.
From where we were, it would take us a few more days to reach the kingdom so I'll skip through the unimportant things again and start around the time we saw the city walls. "There it is, fellas! The Kingdom of Prescotta, Capital City of Ysanctia." Chrome announced. "It does look like what the books and papers describe it to be." I said. "This is exciting! I can't wait to look around!" Cupa declared.
"I don't think that's a good idea, Cupa." Stella told her, "Remember. These people aren't fond of us humobs. Especially those who govern the church." she added. "Boo! You're such a downer, Stella." Cupa said. "I don't mind being like that. We need to be extra cautious. Chrome and Xander won't have a problem here, but you and I will if we are discovered." she said.
Cupa sighed, "Fine. But can we at least find someplace to eat. I really want to eat at a nice restaurant." she said. "I can agree with that. Let us find someplace to dine. I, myself, am craving for some well-prepared meals." Stella said. Chrome and I looked at each other with a mutual understanding that we are to pay for their meals. "No choice." I said. "Same." Chrome said.
With that, we made our way to the city checkpoint. But before that, I noticed that Stella handed Cupa some sort of pill she also had which both of them took. I was about to ask them what that was, however, we had arrived at the checking area so it had to be set aside for now.
Now before entering the capital city, we along with our stuff had to be thoroughly checked for any suspicious items and such. The security was very tight, it could be easily observed when there's a sheer amount of guards wondering around the area we were in. We underwent a background inspection using a newly developed magic scanner or something (I don't know the details) and was not seen as a threat to the city. Same goes for our belongings which allowed us entry into the city.
"Okay. We have cleared you of anything suspicious. You are free to enter. Enjoy you're stay." one of the guards told us. "Thank you, sir. Keep up the good work." I told him. He nodded and we headed down the path into the city without encountering any issues. Soon enough, we were riding down the streets of the renowned holy capital.
The moment we were in the clear and passing by the intricately built structures along the beautiful paved road, Cupa peered out of the carriage window excitedly. I could hear Cupa squealing in the back and couldn't help but chuckle. Although, I have to confess, I too was very excited, it was just a bit more...contained, compared to Cupa's.
This was my first time in Prescotta and I could clearly see why those who live here and visited the place say that it's a beautiful city. What did they call it again? Renaissance art style, I think. Anyway, the city looks way more stunning in person. I don't know if Chrome was starting at me but I heard him say, "Don't stare too much. You might end up melting the buildings." with a slight chuckle at the end.
I just ignored his remark and continued admiring the city as we made our way to the stables. Time must have passed by quickly for me, by the time I noticed we had already arrived. And let me tell you this, the stables don't look like a stable at all. It honestly looked like an inn to me if it weren't for the signage that says it is a stable and not a freaking inn.
After handing over the carriage and our horses to the stables's caretaker, we went off to find us some lodging. Now as we looked for a place to stay, I seem to notice that there are numerous and colorful decorations displayed throughout the streets, majority of them being star-shaped lanterns. "I wonder what's with the decorations." I asked.
"Huh? Are you kidding me?" Chrome replied. I looked at him, "What do you mean?" I asked. He face palmed, "Are you seriously forgetting what month it is." he asked me. I paused to think, "December. Why do you- Oooh, I get it? My bad." I said, finally remembering what he meant. "For a second, I thought you lost your brain." he said. "I guess travelling made forget the dates and months were in." I said.
"Hey? What are you guys talking about? What's this about December and decorations? Cupa asked. "Oh yeah! I forgot most humobs don't know or celebrate this occasion." Chrome said. "What do you mean?" she asked. "Were talking about Craftmas. Ever heard of it?" I asked. She shook her head, "Nope. What is it?" she asked.
"If I remember correctly, it is a human holiday where they exchange or give gifts to other humans. They also tend to have social gatherings and parties around this time of year to celebrate." Stella explained. Chrome clapped his hands, "Looks like someone has done their research." he told her. "I have attended a few parties or two while being an adventurer." she boasted. Chrome chuckled, "Yeah. During the entire party you would hang out by the punch bowl because you were to shy to talk to others..." he said.
To me, it looked like Stella was ready to choke Chrome to death. However, it seems she held back, for now. "So do you give gifts with anyone? Or just with people you know?" Cupa asked. "It usually is done with friends and family. Although, if you have to guts, you can give it to someone you fancy." I told her.
After explaining what Craftmas generally is to Cupa, I can clearly see sparkles of excitement in her eyes. "Craftmas sounds fun!" she announced excitedly. I chuckled, "Well, I'm glad that you fin our holiday fun." I said. "Sadly, we don't really have to luxury or time to celebrate it." Chrome pointed out. "There is also the fact that we might be discovered as humobs." Stella added.
The moment those two said what they wanted, all joy and excitement faded from Cupa's eyes. She pouted, "This sucks." she muttered. "Same. I enjoy this holiday a lot. Sadly, I can't celebrate it. It can't be helped..." I said. "That aside. We should go looking for a place to stay." Stella said. "I know." I replied. With that conversation finished, we soon found a good inn to stay at.
And since we already found a place to stay. We decided that we should look for supplies and a place to trade some items. So we split into two groups: Cupa will accompany Chrome, while Iaccompany Stella. With that, we went our separate ways and agreed to meet back at the inn.
Now as Stella and I walk through the busy streets of the city, I couldn't help but wonder what were those pills they had taken before entering the city. Out of curiosity, I decided to ask her. "Hey, Stella? Mind if I ask you something?" I asked. "Go ahead. Don't be shy now." she said.
"Before we entered the city. You and Cupa took some kind of pill, right? Might I ask what would those be?" I asked. "Oh! You're talking about the 'Concealing Pill' that we took?" she said. "Concealing Pill? That's the first time I've heard of it." I said. "Well, it is a drug that's only available in the Humob Continents." she said. "Only available to the humobs? Why?" I asked.
"Well, you humans don't really need it as much as we do. Plus, the kingdoms have come to an agreement that the drug can only be made and bought in the humob continent." Stella explained. "I see. So what does it do?" I asked.
Stella stopped walking and pointed at a large cathedral across the streets, "Do you see that building?" she asked me. I nodded, "Yeah. It's a Cathedral, a place of worship for Notch followers." I said. "Correct. And as you already know, we humobs are despised by its religious order and by most of its followers." she said, "Know most people can only distinguish a humob by either by their choice of clothes or by the magic they use." she added.
"So what does that have to do with the pill?" I asked. "We're getting there. Anyway, it's a different issue if a member of the church sees you. Now, all members of the church have aura sense, a skill which one can identify someone by looking at their aura. I'm not sure if you know this but a humobs aura is way different to a human aura." Stella explained. "Oh I get it! It helps you conceal your aura, making you look like a bit more human in the eyes of those with aura sense. Did I get it right?" I asked.
Stella chuckled, "Looks like you got it. I guess I don't need to further explain this." she said. I nodded, "Yeah. I think it's best we get back on track." I suggested. And so, we continued down the path we were on. I looked back at the Cathedral, wondering if Mella arrived safely. And of course, I bumped into someone since I wasn't looking where I'm going.
It appears that I didn't fall down, however, the one I bumped into did. I looked down and saw they she was wearing a white robe, "She must be with the church. A sister perhaps?" I thought. I offered her a hand which she gladly took. "Thank you, kind sir. I wasn't paying attention so I must have bumped into you. I'm terribly sorry. I hope you weren't hurt." she said familiarly while dusting her robe.
I was about to reply to her when I suddenly recognized her face, "Mella?! Is that you?" I blurted out. She then looked up and stared at me for a few seconds before gasping, "Xander?!" she exclaimed delightedly. Without any warning, she hugged me tightly which caught me off guard.
Xander's Travel Journal:
Entry #4
Okay. So, it's been snowing the whole time that we were travelling. It's a good sign though so I can't really complain. Ysanctia is pretty much a northern nation, so snow means that we're on the right track. Although, I still can't help that this cold is piercing my skin and digging into my bones. It was very cold.
Putting aside the surroundings description, we decided to switch up the way we slept. You see, the inside of the carriage is really cold so the girls decided it would be best if we slept in tents. It was certainly a good idea since Chrome and I wouldn't want to sleep under the stars this time since we would end up as popsicles when morning came.
So, the first night we spent in the cold climate, the four of us slept in the tents we have brought. The tents were fit for cold weather as well since it was warm on the inside and kept the cold out. That being said, we didn't have problem sleeping due to the cold. However, another interesting thing occurred during one of the nights we were sleeping in the tents.
I'm not sure how and when it happened in the night but when morning came was when all of us realized what has occurred. Okay so this is how things went in the morning. I suddenly woke up due to a loud scream coming from the other tent, it sounded like Stella. So I thought there was some kind of trouble and decided to take off my blanket and see what was going on. And when I did, I almost screamed as well but I didn't because I'm a brave man.
The reason I almost screamed was because Cupa was under the blanket, she was hugging me tightly like some teddy bear. I was confused and embarrassed at the same time. Suddenly, I heard loud thud outside along with a life threatening sentence. Curious to see what was going on and determined to escape a weird situation, I slowly freed myself of Cupas' grasp and exited the tent.
Outside was a wonderful, winter morning with a gruesome scene of someone lying on the cold, hard ground. Chrome was the victim of a raging Stella, he was lying on the floor yet he was still sleeping. I could see Stella fuming and looking beet red embarrassed. "I assume that he was sleeping inside the girls tent?" I asked. Stella turned to me, "He was! I can't believe it he slept next to me! How absurd!" she exclaimed angrily.
That's when I probably guessed what had occurred. I first tries to calm Stella down as she was fuming so much she started sweating in the cold. Eventually, I managed to calm her down. Then showed her my side of the problem which surprised her. "I'm guessing that you know what I'm trying to say right?" I asked her. She nodded, "They accidentally switched places last night when...they probably needed to go out." she said.
"Bingo." I said. Both of us looked at each other and agreed not to speak of this occurrence ever happening. And so, I carried Chrome back into out tent while I helped Stella carry Cupa back. Later, both sleepy heads woke up. One of them wondering why his body hurt a lot. The other one, feeling great. Luckily, none of them knew what had occurred and the day went on as usual. However, Stella and I made sure that it doesn't happen again.
Author's Note:
Thank you once again everyone for reading this chapter! Please continue to support the story. And don't forget to leave a review if you liked the story since those are what really get me going. It can be anything from jokes, opinions, suggestions, or straight up criticism. With that said, I hope you have a wonderful day/night! Thank you as always! Take care and God bless! :)