Following Rachel and Nyx following the events of the previous chapter, we follow them as they travel outside of the kingdom. We can see the settlement beginning to slink into the deepest parts of the castle. Let's follow them on their adventure through the story.
Chapter #4 ~ The Levant
Outside, a burst of light caught Rachel's attention, causing her to scan her surroundings. She took in the different structures, her eyes fixing on a distant, towering building. It filled her with awe and wonder. In front of her stood a rectangular building with numerous windows, while smaller structures lined the area. Walking alongside Nyx at her side, Rachel turned and noticed many others around.
Eminent members sought refuge in the castle keep, a grand structure adorned with heroic tapestries and heraldic emblems. Inside, the private quarters exuded opulence.
The sleeping chambers radiated sovereignty, giving sanctuaries for fighters to repose and preserve their things amidst the grandeur of their surroundings.
As the castle's influence expanded, a complex tapestry of accommodations emerged. Barracks showcased equality among militia of varying ranks during military campaigns, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fighters bound by a common purpose. Additionally, the manor house catered to landowners and warriors, offering private chambers or shared sleeping quarters.
The castle's influence extended to the temporary tents outside, which served as sanctuaries for "knights" during battles and tournaments. Inns dotted the landscape, providing pleasant shelter reverberating with shared tales of adventure and the comforting aromas of good food. The Westside, with its numerous quarters, encapsulated the multifaceted lives of soldiers, both within and outside the castle walls.
In the vicinity, magicians and soldiers honed their skills, aiming at standing targets or engaging in physical training. They diligently patrolled the surrounding area, occasionally checking their timers. Stacks of different conveyances, ranging from small to large, filled the nearby space.
The first section focuses on carriages and carts. These vehicles, made of wood and ornamented with elaborate carvings, ranged in size and style. Carriages provided elegant transportation for the elite, whereas carts met the functional demands of merchants. The rhythmic clatter of hooves and the squeak of wooden wheels resonated through the cobblestone streets. Passers-by rely on horses to go around the streets.
The final sections focus on the lakeside regions, with a nearby gate on display. Water transportation played a crucial role in medieval trade and travel. Ships and boats constructed from sturdy wood and steel sailed through rivers and seas, connecting distant regions. The sails fluttered as the wind swayed, creating a captivating sight.
Upon witnessing it, the rainbowlass turned to Nyx.
"What is this place?" Rachel inquired.
"This is another section of the Outer Bailey. Here is a large military base for the militia. And the soldiers in silver armor before you are the king's 'knights in shining armor'," Nyx replied.
"Knights? They don't look like knights to me. I've seen illustrations of them in full metal armor in the library. They don't even have helmets," The rainbowlass shrugged, and the ghost glanced at her.
"Yes, that's what I've tried to explain to him earlier. Wearing heavy armor weighs a warrior down. They already have military gear, so they're prepared. Anyway, we must continue," Nyx muttered as the rainbowlass stopped, and they teleported to a different location.
Rachel and Nyx reappeared, standing on a different section of the vast castle and entering a busy area that included several vital components of the kingdom's machinery. High above, the warehouses loomed like medieval skyscrapers, their towering presence casting a shadow over the kingdom below.
These stone fortresses stood as sentinel guardians, protecting the kingdom's affluence and prosperity. The formidable walls rose with an air of power and authority. The imposing splendor of the castle's halls gave way to the bustling center of activity as they went under the weighty stone archway.
As they stepped inside, Nyx pressed her arm and hand on Rachel's chest, and the rainbowlass raised an eyebrow.
"What are you doing?" The rainbowlass inquired.
"You need protection first." The ghost spoke as she peered around the space and noticed mounds of garments from around. She nodded her head. A shimmering orb emerged from her hands and levitated toward her.
The ghost took it and passed it on to the rainbowlass. The girl gazed down at it. The heat protection suit is a personalized, dark-blue clothing designed to keep the user safe from extreme temperatures. It consists of a heat-resistant face shield for facial protection, insulated and flame-resistant boots for foot safety, and heat-resistant gloves with reinforced layers for hand protection.
Rachel stayed steady and cocked her head as she started wearing the costume. She slipped into the suit, pulled the head covering over her head, and zipped up the zipper. The rainbow creature inspected herself while the outfit was on her body. She observed every moment, even the symbol pinned to her dress. Nyx then gestured with her hand, and Rachel followed.
In the dimly lit workshop, the workers emerged from the shadows, their forms distorted and grotesque. Some were tall and hunched, their limbs twisted and contorted like gnarled branches.
Others were small and scuttling, their insect-like appendages skittering across the floor. They wore tattered tunics stained with dirt and grime, sturdy trousers hanging loosely from their underweight frames.
Leather or cloth shoes clung to their misshapen feet, worn down from years of labor. A sense of unease hung as they moved about, each step creaking with an eerie rhythm. Their heads were covered by hooded cloaks or hats, casting deep shadows over their sunken eyes.
Some wore helmets adorned with ancient emblems, remnants of a forgotten time. Gloved hands gripped tools with a cold determination while goggles obscured their sight, turning them into faceless specters of industry.
Construction workers and mechanical beings worked side by side in a strange harmony. The clanking of machinery echoed through the chamber as they meticulously sorted out the items before them. With precise movements and otherworldly efficiency, they constructed intricate contraptions using bizarre equipment.
Blades sliced through various materials while sparks erupted from welding torches held by skeletal hands.
Heat enveloped the area, sweat from their heads, and sounds of hammers, electricity, saws, screwdrivers, weapon sharpeners, and countless power tools used to set up many structures ahead. Some nearby placed the blue grided paper on platters and used white colored pencils, rulers, and rope to life themselves.
In the further regions of the area, three workers stood side by side, their appearances strikingly similar yet uniquely distinct.
The first worker, with the name tag "Hank," adorned in vibrant red-orange skin, narrowed eyes, and enthusiasm with steam. His movements were swift and precise as he pointed to the picture frames and parts displayed on the grids with his trusty stick.
The second worker, with the named tag "Steve," with skin in a cool hue of light blue, exuded a calm and collected demeanor. He gestured towards each element, his meticulousness evident in every gesture.
And then there was the final worker, named tag "George," distinguished by his gray attire and a well-groomed mustache that added an air of wisdom to his countenance. He approached his task with a measured approach, carefully examining each grid and frame before guiding others with his short yet sturdy stick.
"Okay, boys. Our master wants us to build this new chariot. And he expected us to deliver our best presentation yet. We cannot allow mistakes or mishaps to thrive, so breaks are needed if it's too much." Steve displayed to his men.
"If you don't get any more metal or tools as our lord requested, he won't hesitate to turn us into the products we created!" Hank yelled.
"Take no hurry, gentlemen. Make sure our creations have excellent details and requirements. Remember: you can't rush art." George replied.
The stress was apparent as the expert artisans prepared for the difficult task ahead. Hammer strokes. Meticulously measured was carried out with precision, stress, and care. The chariot began to take shape, its elaborate design reflecting the "king"'s talent and passion. With each passing minute, they incorporated every detail and kink into each product offered.
The rainbowlass looked around as she stood still, clamped her mouth shut as she turned to the ghost.
"Bleak, isn't it?" The phantom asked.
"Yeah... I can see why you had me wear this suit. What are they making?" Rachel asked as they strolled along the area.
"Creating projects in the best quality possible. It is why the castle looked top-notch and its resources. On the east side, the "king" expected his workers to have excellent proficiency in constructing all the materials you see before you. Weapons, vehicles, mechs, and even the structure itself." Nyx said as they continued by.
The rainbowlass looked left and right, seeing many workers wiping off the sweat from their foreheads, feeling their hands if they sensed anything, and some sat on chairs as they drank with mechs noticing this and walking by. Others slummed to the floor, and several mechs picked them up, taking them elsewhere. Rachel watched as the mechs left elsewhere.
"Some of those guys fell to the floor. Are they okay?" The rainbowlass asked as she pointed to the workers falling to the floor, and Nyx noticed. She sighed as she looked downward.
"I've told him overworking them is futile to their health," Nyx grumbled before they heard a scream, as they saw a worker falling from one of the structures. Nyx lifted her arm, causing an orb to appear in her fingers, and the worker nearly fell to the floor as he closed his eyes.
Rachel gasped. He froze in place and placed it on the floor gently. Rachel sighed lightly as she placed her hand on her chest. Once standing on the floor and opened his eyes, he laughed as he stretched out his arms, and heavily sighed. The construction worker turned around, seeing Nyx as a smile rose from his face.
"Thank you, my queen..." He said as he went elsewhere in the room. As he did, Nyx and Rachel left the area, and the rainbowlass removed the outfit, giving it to the ghost who folded it for her. As they moved to another place, they approached a different area.
Beneath the towering warehouses, the town market unfolded into a lively spectacle. Cobblestone roads cradled vibrant booths, each a kaleidoscope of goods. Masterfully crafted items competed for attention alongside fresh produce and exotic spices.
Inside some areas, row upon row of stacked containers and barrels lined the walls, their contents a testament to the abundance of goods within. Grains, textiles, and other valuable commodities were meticulously stored, ready to be traded, and enjoyed by the kingdom's inhabitants.
The market buzzed with life, a symphony of bartering and slight laughter that echoed off the stone walls, creating an ambiance as rich and varied as the goods on display. The air was thick with the scent of freshly baked bread and aromatic spices, enticing passersby to explore every nook and cranny of this bustling marketplace. The sound of musicians filled the air, their melodies adding an enchanting layer to the solemn vibrant scene.
As Rachel and her companions pressed forward, the landscape transformed into a series of sprawling homes that resembled the village yet possessed a grandeur that hinted at a more prosperous existence. "Knights" clad in gleaming armor honing their weapons outside, their practiced movements a testament to their dedication.
Within the distance, towers stood sentinel, their occupants diligently training or surveying the surroundings with beams of light piercing through the darkness. Meanwhile, the remaining knights retreated to their homes, where wives made mundane decisions, and children reveled in innocent games. It was a scene reminiscent of the village they had left behind. Yet devoid of any trace of the criminal they sought.
"Huh. This place feels more...put together than the village." Rachel stated, and Nyx nodded.
"Yes. This is where the king's..."inhabitants," who served him live in the hierarch. More barracks, or "military homes," as I would say. He has allowed them to raise their families, under the condition they devote their servitude to him." The phantom said as she pointed her finger at the places.
"I suppose this is where the special way he values people comes in?" The rainbowlass asked as she shrugged her arms.
"Of course. These people are his elites and the smartest of the kingdom. Hence the military base. He's pleased when these people deliver excellent service, and follow his every command when needed." The ghost contoured as they strolled along the area, and Rachel scratched her head as if what she saw in the warehouse was still on her mind.
"And what happens when they don't? They'll end up like the guys back there?" Rachel asked, and Nyx champed her mouth shut for a moment. She took a small sigh after looking down.
"S-Something like that. But anyway, let's continue." Nyx said as the two continued their walk.
Descending further into the castle's depths, the echoes of hooves on straw-laden floors reverberated through the stone walls, catching the two's attention. As they entered this vast edifice, a bustling symphony of activity unfolded.
Dedicated workers scurried about, attending to every need of the kingdom's majestic steeds. The air was thick with the earthy scent of straw and the sweet aroma of hay, creating a sensory feast for those fortunate enough to enter this sacred space. Within these hallowed walls, horses stood as symbols of strength and grace, their power emanating from every sinew and muscle.
Some steeds responded to gentle hands caressing their noble frames, they nickered appreciatively, acknowledging the love and care bestowed upon them. Others were facing immense pain, the sounds of whips were heard across them, and many whined as the pain worsened. Some are coated with straps and connected to the chariots by those in sleek coats glistening under flickering lantern light.
Rachel's body trembled as sweat dripped from her forehead. The sound of the whips grew louder as she leaned in closer, prompting Nyx to place her hand on Rachel's shoulder as she looked up and down.
"What's this section?" Rachel asked.
"These areas you see before housed the top breeds of horses ever presented in the world: Arabians, Thoroughbreds, Andalusians, Hanoverians, and many more. And as you can tell, they're already setting up shop for the equine." Nyx said as she pointed to the section before another whip sound was heard. Another horse whined loudly.
"Poor creatures... Why are they doing that to them?" The rainbowlass asked.
"To keep them in line. Despite breeding top-quality equine, several have a list of problems the king doesn't accept: behavioral problems, poor performance, illness, or injury. So, they're provided with While most were stable and operational for battle and racing, others were left in the dens and used for chariots only." The ghost said, and Rachel raised her eyebrows.
"Racing?" She asked.
"Of course. Horse-riding is a common sport in these parts and serves as entertainment. Winners get to perform in battle while the losers are stuck on duty." Nyx continued as Rachel looked around the deans, and something caught her eye. She spotted several horses inside another den. She saw them inside dark corners. All alone in the den and lying on the ground. They looked downward, with pink eyes and sheepishly breathing. A few equines have skeletal ribs protruding from their bodies, while others have red scars on their skin. Rachel placed one of her hands on her chest, and slowly, her jaw dropped before she clammed it up.
"Oh yeah, I forgot to mention. Neglect." Nyx sighed as she put two fingers as they went along. She whistled, and it caught the attention of the workers nearby. They turned around from their recent settlement with the first set of horses, and the ghost pointed at the equines.
"These horses needed medical attention! Have them settled, and I won't report this to the "king!" She screamed as she placed her hands on her hips.
"Yes, your Majesty!" The workers responded as they came over and went inside their dens, and others pulled them out. As they walked, Rachel took a little peep at the horses and placed both hands together. She looked downward on the ground, with a small sigh coming out of her mouth.
Little did she know, Nyx brought one of her hands behind her back, and an orb appeared. Its illuminance is scattered across the area, and it's gotten onto the nearby bowls. They moved close to the equine, and the creatures looked downward. The bowls are filled with water, while others have stacked food inside. The equines neighed as one of the folks looked over their conditions and drank some water.
Next to the stables further away, animal dens housed an eclectic mix of creatures crucial to the kingdom's functioning. Many are caged, and chained up to the area, with many watchmen holding loaded weapons. Devoted dogs stood guard, their loyal eyes scanning the surroundings with unwavering focus while hunting falcons perched on their perches, poised and ready for their next exhilarating flight.
Growls burst out of their mouths, and saliva dropped from their jaws. The air was alive with the melodic chorus of squawks and screeches, as dark, yet colorful feathers flitted through the branches above. And amidst it all, the occasional horse's neigh carried on the wind, a powerful reminder of the noble steeds that roamed these grounds.
Rachel's small smile vanished as she began to gasp, staring at the beings inside the cages and remaining close to Nyx. Her pulse rate gradually increased, and she panted lightly. Her pupils shrank somewhat as she witnessed how enormous the animals were. Rachel noticed several beings were more extensive, with antlers, tremendous jaws, and claws. Others were smaller but had wings, large ears, feathers, and avian-inspired traits. Some were narrow and slimy with only arms and slender, while the others were little with extended tails, shaking, and various body appendages. More cages adjacent contain beings with tree branches, the bark of which has fissures, chipping chunks, and leaves scattered throughout.
Some have singular optics, others have two but misplaced white-and-black or red, and the skin seems to be the same as a rainbow but darker and sharpened. Most growl and sit calmly in their dens, while others are ferocious. The rainbowlass gazed left and right, noticing many of the beings inside the cages, wearing silver chains around their necks. However, several are groomed and fed with pounds of meat. The rainbowlass peered downward and noticed tarps all over the platforms beneath the cages.
"W-W-What ARE those things?!" Rachel cried, and Nyx turned to her.
"These creatures are new... "species" for our animal dens. Endangered creatures gathered over time. And I advised you to keep your distance." The phantom answered as they continued walking away. Rachel quickly moves away as Nyx catches up. Unbeknownst to them, one of the workers removed one of the tarps, revealing a symbol with an upside-down heart and horns pointing upward, similar to the one before it.
Getting interesting, isn't it?