Chapter 9.2: The City of Millhaven - Shadowfang Crawler Siege
Year 0004, Month I-III: The Imperium
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Day 35: Beast Rampage and a Call to Arms
The third day dawned with deceptive tranquility. For the first time in weeks, there had been no night patrols, allowing everyone in their caravan to enjoy the luxury of proper rest in the mountain city. Unfortunately, just as the first rays of sunlight began to paint the eastern peaks, the massive war horns and bells of Millhaven rang out across the stone corridors and chambers. Their deep, resonant calls echoed through every street, a sound that spoke of desperation rather than routine alarm.
August had already been awake, mentally preparing to face the new morning, but this alarm was different—urgent, almost frantic. Something had gone terribly wrong at the perimeter wall of the mountain city.
Within moments, soldiers and armed militia rushed toward the battlements with remarkable efficiency, their boots thundering against stone as they responded to the call. From his vantage point on the upper floors of the Louvere de Mont Inn, positioned high above the terraced mountain settlements, August could clearly observe the source of the chaos unfolding below.
Hundreds of creatures had erupted from the treeline like a living tide of darkness, swarming toward the five-kilometer buffer zone where the forest had been systematically cleared to provide defenders with an unobstructed view of approaching threats. These beasts were unlike anything native to the region—their alien forms moved with predatory purpose across the cleared ground. August's blood ran cold as realization struck: they had emerged from the dreaded Lonely Forest of Shadowfen.
And among their ranks prowled a creature August had never encountered before.
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BEASTIARY INDEX
Name: Arak'nor — Official Bestiary Index Name
Common Name: Shadowfang Crawler
Appearance:
From a distance, an Arak'nor appears as a massive, low-slung panther wreathed in rippling shadows that seem to writhe with malevolent life. However, closer inspection reveals its true, deeply unnatural form—eight jointed, chitinous limbs protrude from its flanks like some nightmare fusion of predator and arachnid, each ending in curved talons capable of finding purchase on sheer walls or cave ceilings. Its body is sheathed in sleek midnight fur, shot through with faint iridescent streaks that catch ambient light like strands of a spider's web made manifest.
The creature's head blends the lethal grace of a great feline with the disturbing mouthparts of a giant spider. Two long, curved fangs protrude from its jaw, constantly weeping paralytic venom that hisses and steams when it touches stone or earth. Eight eyes—alternating between amber and blood-red—are arranged in an unsettling pattern across its face, granting perfect vision in absolute darkness and the ability to perceive light spectrums invisible to human sight.
Size & Build:
Comparable in length to a draft horse but far leaner and infinitely more agile. Its feline musculature provides explosive pouncing power, while its arachnid limbs allow for impossible climbing maneuvers, sideways scuttling, and utterly silent movement that defies its considerable size.
Abilities & Traits:
- Venomous Fangs: A single bite delivers paralytic toxins that can immobilize prey within seconds
- Webcasting: Hidden spinnerets beneath its abdomen can launch thick, sticky silk strands to ensnare or trip opponents
- Ceiling Stalker: Natural ability to cling to any surface, often dropping onto unsuspecting prey from above
- Shadowmeld: Specialized fur that absorbs ambient light, allowing near-perfect camouflage in darkness
- Predatory Intelligence: Combines feline cunning with arachnid patience, capable of stalking prey for hours before striking
Behavior:
Arak'nor are solitary hunters by nature, preferring the dead of night or the pitch-black depths of underground caverns. They are methodical predators, often leaving victims alive but completely immobilized, wrapped in silk cocoons for later consumption. While they typically avoid unnecessary confrontation, once an Arak'nor begins a hunt, it will pursue its quarry with relentless determination.
Habitat:
Dense jungle canopies, extensive cave systems, and abandoned ruins—anywhere shadows and vertical terrain provide tactical advantages. Recent mass sightings beyond the Shadowfen treeline suggest something catastrophic has driven these normally solitary predators from their hidden domains.
SPECIMEN DESIGNATION:
Arak'nor the Shadowfang Crawler
RANK CLASSIFICATION:
Commander (★★★)
RARITY DESIGNATION:
Heroic (Crimson Red)
CURRENT LEVEL:
100
STATISTICAL FOUNDATION:
Rank Enhancement (38,000) + Rarity Accumulation (4,500) = 42,500 total
HEALTH CALCULATION: Base HP (100 × 500 = 50,000) enhanced by +42,500% statistical multiplier = 21,300,000 HP
MANA CALCULATION: Base MP (100 × 250 = 25,000) enhanced by +42,500% statistical multiplier = 10,650,000 MP
OFFENSIVE CAPABILITY: Base (42,500) enhanced by +42,500% = 18,105,000 Attack Damage
DEFENSIVE CAPABILITY: Base (42,500) enhanced by +42,500% = 18,105,000 Damage Negation
EXPERIENCE REWARD: +12,500 XP when successfully defeated
SPECIMEN DESIGNATION:
Arak'nor the Shadowfang Crawler
RANK CLASSIFICATION:
Soldier (★★)
RARITY DESIGNATION:
Heroic (Royal Purple)
CURRENT LEVEL:
70
STATISTICAL FOUNDATION: Rank Enhancement (13,000) + Rarity Accumulation (2,700) = +15,700 total
HEALTH CALCULATION: Base HP (70 × 500 = 35,000) enhanced by +15,700% statistical multiplier = 5,530,000 HP
MANA CALCULATION: Base MP (70 × 250 = 17,500) enhanced by +15,700% statistical multiplier = 2,765,000 MP
OFFENSIVE CAPABILITY: Base (15,700) enhanced by +15,700% = 2,480,600 Attack Damage
DEFENSIVE CAPABILITY: Base (15,700) enhanced by +15,700% = 2,480,600 Damage Negation
EXPERIENCE REWARD: +5,700 XP when successfully defeated
Recognizing the imminent threat, August swiftly donned his armor and combat equipment, his movements precise despite the urgency. He refused to allow this city to fall to ruin, especially with his team sheltering within its walls. His tactical mind immediately began formulating defensive strategies—they would need to hold the walls at all costs, using the fortifications to their maximum advantage.
August and Team 1 rushed toward the battlements, their footsteps echoing through the stone corridors. Lord Hugo and his commanders had already taken their positions, the nobleman's authoritative voice cutting through the morning air as he issued rapid-fire orders to his soldiers and retinues. Representatives from the other noble houses had also assembled, their colorful banners creating a stark contrast against the gray stone walls.
When August arrived with his team, they were accompanied by their security detail—the Martin family, renowned specialists in defensive warfare—and Master Ben, the Wandering Wizard of Molten Flames, whose magical expertise would prove invaluable in the coming battle. August's strategic mind noted an alarming discrepancy: according to both his Personal System information and the World System Bestiary Index, Arak'nor were definitively solitary creatures, preferring to hunt alone under cover of darkness.
Yet here they were—a legion of over four hundred Shadowfang Crawlers moving in coordinated formation across the cleared ground. Fortunately, August's enhanced vision detected no Boss-Ranked specimens among their ranks, though the sight of twenty commander-class beasts leading four hundred soldier-rank Arak'nor was sobering enough.
"Your Grace," August said, offering a respectful bow as he approached Lord Hugo, "we are here to offer our assistance. My team includes aerial reconnaissance capabilities—we can provide you with real-time battlefield intelligence from above."
Lord Hugo's weathered face showed both relief and calculation. "Very well, young Finn. I shall gladly accept your aid." He paused, his experienced eyes taking in the quality of August's equipment and that of his companions. "Master Ben has already spoken highly of your armor and weapons. Their craftsmanship is quite remarkable for ones so young."
"Thank you for your kind words, Your Grace. With your permission, we'll begin immediate reconnaissance." August turned to his team with practiced efficiency. "Bren, take Kirpy up and assess the full scope of the battlefield. Count our enemies and scan for any additional threats we might have missed."
Bren nodded curtly and mounted his enhanced peregrine eagle, Kirpy, secured by a custom-crafted harness. Both rider and bird were equipped with sharpened talons and beak guards that gleamed in the morning light as they launched skyward.
Meanwhile, Erik and his wolf companion Rexy had already begun scaling down the perimeter walls, moving with fluid grace as they positioned themselves to scout the flanks for potential ambush routes.
Through their party chat system—a magical communication network that linked the team members—reports began flowing in with military precision.
[Bren: *Gus, I've completed a ten-kilometer sweep. No additional threats visible in the surrounding area. This appears to be their entire force.*
Erik: *Confirming Bren's assessment. Flanks are clear—no signs of secondary assault groups or ambush parties.*
August: *Understood. Maintain overwatch, Bren. Erik, return to the walls and prepare for engagement.*
Bren and Erik: *Copy that.*]
August immediately relayed this crucial intelligence to Lord Hugo. "Sir, my reconnaissance team reports no additional threats within a ten-kilometer radius. The force before us appears to be operating independently."
The Earl's tactical mind immediately began processing this information alongside his commanders' input. "Should we sally forth and meet them in open battle, or maintain our defensive advantage and utilize our ballista emplacements?"
"Your Grace," August interjected respectfully, "I would recommend a combined approach. Initial ballista bombardment to thin their ranks and disrupt their formation, followed by a controlled sally to finish off the survivors."
The assembled commanders nodded approvingly at this sound tactical thinking. The plan was swiftly implemented.
Four massive ballista emplacements, each enhanced with magical inscriptions to increase both damage output and armor penetration, were loaded with enchanted bolts the size of small trees. The weapons pivoted on their mounting systems, trained on the approaching horde with mechanical precision.
The first volley shrieked through the morning air, the bolts cutting through the atmosphere with deadly purpose. Several found their marks, impaling Arak'nor to the earth with bone-crushing force. The sight of their packmates pinned to the ground, writhing in agony as they attempted to free themselves from the massive projectiles, sent ripples of awareness through the beast formation.
A sound that defied easy description erupted from the throat of the lead commander-rank Arak'nor—part screech, part roar, wholly alien and utterly terrifying. The acoustic assault was so intense that several soldiers on the walls instinctively covered their ears, their faces contorting in pain.
This otherworldly battle cry served as a signal for coordinated assault. The remaining Arak'nor suddenly displayed their terrifying agility, scattering and weaving as the second ballista volley whistled overhead. While some projectiles still found their targets, the majority of the creatures had adapted to the threat with disturbing intelligence.
"Proud warriors of Millhaven!" Lord Hugo's voice boomed across the battlements, his sword raised high against the morning sky. "Raise your spears! Steady your shields! Do not allow them to establish a foothold on our walls! Burn their webs!"
The clash began in earnest as the first Arak'nor reached the base of the walls. Their eight chitinous limbs found purchase on the hewn stone with disturbing ease, allowing them to scale the fortifications like monstrous spiders. Defenders thrust spears downward while archers loosed volleys of arrows, but the creatures' natural agility made them frustratingly difficult targets.
August and his team moved with the coordinated precision of seasoned beast hunters. They had studied the enemy during the approach, identifying weak points in the chitinous armor and exploiting every tactical advantage their teamwork provided. When they shared these observations with the other defenders, the tide of battle began to shift subtly in humanity's favor.
The soldier-rank Arak'nor that managed to crest the walls found themselves facing not panicked civilians, but disciplined warriors who understood their enemy's capabilities. August's team worked in perfect synchronization, their superior tactics allowing them to eliminate most of the climbing threats before they could establish positions on the battlements.
The commander-rank specimens proved far more challenging. Their eight deadly limbs worked in concert with their web-casting abilities, creating complex tactical problems that required multiple defenders to address. However, the humans possessed overwhelming numerical superiority and the advantage of fortified positions. Lord Hugo himself had taken to the field, his enchanted blade cleaving through chitin and shadow with practiced ease.
Most crucially, the defenders benefited from August's presence, along with the Martin family's defensive expertise and Master Ben's magical support. The elderly wizard had positioned himself at the rear, providing strategic spellcasting while deliberately allowing the younger fighters to gain valuable combat experience—a teaching methodology born from the understanding that he wouldn't always be available to protect them.
The battle's momentum began to favor the defenders, but August's tactical awareness detected a troubling shift. The Arak'nor were adapting their strategy, beginning to coordinate multi-creature assaults against individual defenders. This tactical evolution was causing casualties to mount among the human forces.
Recognizing that the situation could deteriorate rapidly if allowed to continue, August made a command decision. "All friendly forces, prepare for area-effect magical bombardment!" he shouted across the battlefield. "Clear the forward engagement zone immediately!"
The experienced warriors responded instantly, falling back from their advanced positions. Master Ben, understanding August's intent, conjured a defensive wall of molten flame along the battlements, creating a barrier that would contain August's attack while simultaneously providing additional protection for the defenders.
August centered himself, drawing upon one of his most devastating abilities—a Guardian Beast exclusive skill capable of delivering catastrophic area-effect damage through a combination of precision lightning strikes and wind-enhanced destruction.
ZEPHYR'S ARCING BOLT GALE-TEMPEST
(CLASS V - GRAND MASTER) | (Mid-Tier Skill ★★)
August deliberately limited himself to merely 1% of the skill's available Guardian Beast power, resulting in a final damage output of approximately 38.5 to 133.19 million attack points delivered over five seconds—even this restrained fraction, combined with his personal magical attack damage, would prove absolutely devastating against the assembled enemy force.
The skill activated with breathtaking beauty and terrible purpose. Lightning and wind danced together in perfect harmony, their destructive synergy enhanced by the morning sunlight that caught and reflected off every electric arc and swirling wind current. The elemental forces sought out their targets with supernatural accuracy across a 180-degree cone extending 100 meters forward, the initial lightning strike paralyzing enemies in place before systematically destroying them with sustained electrical damage that coursed through their bodies over the full five-second duration.
The effect was immediate and overwhelmingly decisive. Approximately 200 of the 400 soldier-rank Arak'nor and 5 of the remaining 20 commander-rank specimens were obliterated in a matter of seconds, their chitinous forms reduced to smoldering shadows and scattered ash on the scorched battlefield. The acrid smell of burned chitin and ozone filled the air as wisps of smoke rose from the devastated ground.
The sight of such overwhelming magical devastation broke the enemy's will entirely. The surviving Arak'nor, faced with power beyond their comprehension, abandoned all coordination and began a desperate, chaotic retreat toward the treeline. However, their panic-driven flight would prove futile—August and the reinvigorated soldiers, sensing complete victory within reach, immediately launched into pursuit. The defenders sallied forth from their fortified positions with renewed vigor, systematically hunting down and eliminating every remaining beast before they could escape back to the safety of the Shadowfen forest.
Cheers of triumph erupted from the walls, though they were tempered by tears of grief for the fallen. The battle was decisively won, but victory had come at a sobering cost—fifty brave soldiers and militia members of Millhaven would not return to their families this day, and many more bore wounds that would serve as permanent reminders of this desperate defense.
Cheers of victory erupted from the walls, mixed with tears of grief for the fallen. The battle was won, but at a cost—brave soldiers and militia members of Millhaven would not return to their families that day.
The final tally of enemy casualties reflected the devastating effectiveness of coordinated defense: August and his team had accounted for over half of all enemy eliminations. Team 1, the Martins, and Master Ben—who had focused on support rather than dealing killing blows—had eliminated approximately 30 soldier-rank and 2 commander-rank Arak'nor. August personally had destroyed 8 commander-rank and at least 220 soldier-rank creatures, with his final devastating attack being the decisive factor.
**EXPERIENCE DISTRIBUTION:**
- 10 Commander Ranked: +125,000 XP
- 250 Soldier Ranked: +1,550,000 XP
- Party System Bonus: +25% = 1,937,500 total XP
The Party System distributed this experience among ten active members: August, Erik, Bren, Betty, Angeline, Isabel, Adam, Master Ben, Axel Martin, and Andy, who had remained in close proximity during the battle. Each participant received 193,750 XP for their contribution.
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PARTY SYSTEM STATUS
[Active Members:]
**(TEAM 1)**
- August Finn - Leader [All-Rounder] (Active) - Lvl. 25 (MAX) (70,000/70,000) (+443,750)
- Erik Rubbard - Sub-Leader [Scout] (Active) - Lvl. 24 (37,750/66,500) *Category II - High-Tier (Human) - Level 45*
- Betty Snow - Member [Support Attacker] (Active) - Lvl. 23 (38,250/63,000) *Category II - Mid-Tier (Human) - Level 35*
- Bren Anglewood - Member [Hybrid Vanguard/Attacker] (Active) - Lvl. 24 (5,250/66,500) *Category II - Mid-Tier (Human) - Level 40*
- Angeline Ross - Member [Support/Attacker] (Active) - Lvl. 23 (38,250/63,000) *Category II - Mid-Tier (Human) - Level 30*
- Adam Peerce - Member [Tanker] (Active) - Lvl. 23 (38,250/63,000) - *Mid-Tier (Human) - Level 40*
- Isabel Peerce - Member [All-Rounder] (Active) - Lvl. 24 (37,750/66,500) - *Mid-Tier (Human) Level 40*
**(SUPPORT TEAM)**
- Ben Flameswrath - Member [Wizard] (Active) - Lvl. 21 (51,250/56,000) *Category V - High-Tier (Human) Lvl. 150 (max)*
- Andy Shoor - Member [Merchant/Mercenary] (Active) - Lvl. 16 (21,250/38,500) *Category III - Mid-Tier (Human) Lvl. 80*
- Axel Martin - Member [Defense Sorcerer] (Active) - Lvl. 13 (23,750/30,000) *Category IV - High-Tier (Human) Lvl. 107*
The experience distribution resulted in significant advancement for most team members, with core members gaining 3-4 levels each. Master Ben achieved level 21—a four-level advancement. Andy experienced dramatic growth, jumping six levels from his previous level 10. Axel Martin showed the most remarkable improvement, advancing from level 1 to level 13.
Everyone who witnessed August's final attack—with the exception of his team members who had seen similar displays of power before—stood in stunned silence. Even Lord Hugo, who had already formed a high opinion of the young man's capabilities, found himself reassessing his evaluation upward once again.
"Young Finn," the Earl said, his voice carrying a mixture of respect and wonder, "it appears you have far exceeded my previous assessment of your abilities. For your service today, I intend to reward you and your team most generously."
August's response surprised everyone within earshot. "My Lord, we only did what duty demanded. Please, I ask that you give our share to the families of those we have lost today and to those who have been gravely injured. I cannot accept monetary compensation when brave souls have paid the ultimate price. If I had acted sooner with my abilities, perhaps we could have prevented these losses entirely. For that oversight, I apologize."
Lord Hugo felt as though he had been struck by lightning a second time that day. He had assumed, based on long experience with adventurers and mercenaries, that August had participated in the battle primarily for material gain. This display of genuine humility and selfless concern for others revealed a character far more noble than the Earl had dared hope.
"If that is truly your wish, young man, then I shall honor it," Hugo said slowly, his voice thick with emotion. "However, I cannot allow the heroes of this day to depart entirely unrewarded. You and your companions have earned the gratitude of every soul in Millhaven. Expect additional recognition for your service, and the monetary reward I had prepared for you will indeed go to the families of our fallen and wounded defenders."
The Earl paused, studying August's face carefully. "It seems that we, the established nobility of this realm, have learned valuable lessons about humility and proper conduct from a stranger—though I suspect you are no longer mere strangers, but true heroes in the making. Go now and rest, for that is what brought you to my city in the first place."
"If Your Grace still insists on providing some form of compensation," August said thoughtfully, "then I would request permission to harvest materials from perhaps ten commander-rank Arak'nor and thirty soldier-grade specimens. I wish to craft enhanced armor and weapons for my team using their unique properties."
Lord Hugo considered this request briefly. While Arak'nor materials were indeed valuable resources, such compensation barely approached the true value of what August had potentially saved the city from—a catastrophic beast invasion that could have resulted in complete destruction.
"Granted, and you may take all of the commander-rank specimens if you wish," Hugo replied decisively. "They are far more valuable than the soldier-rank creatures for crafting purposes. I confess surprise that you possess advanced crafting abilities as well—that would certainly explain the exceptional quality of your equipment. Such a small request hardly begins to address the magnitude of your service to us."
August offered another respectful bow before turning his attention to his team members, carefully examining each for injuries and providing high-quality healing potions not only to his companions but also to nearby soldiers who had been wounded in the fighting. Lord Hugo watched these acts of generosity with growing amazement, feeling genuinely humbled by someone four times younger than himself.
The remainder of the day passed in a mixture of celebration and mourning. While the city rejoiced in their victory, they also grieved for their losses—fifty brave men and women who would never return home, and one hundred twenty others bearing wounds of varying severity. Lord Hugo had prepared substantial compensation for the families affected, understanding that while gold could not restore life, it might ease the practical burdens of those left behind.
As evening approached, August ventured out with his core team members to harvest materials from the fallen Arak'nor. When the wall guards observed this practical activity, they volunteered to assist, recognizing that the beast carcasses represented valuable resources for both consumption and crafting purposes.
Working together, defenders and heroes hauled the fallen creatures within the city walls, where August and his team spent the remaining daylight hours systematically processing the carcasses. Meat was separated for food stores, while armor plating, venom sacs, silk glands, and other useful components were carefully extracted and catalogued.
Instead of the originally requested ten commander-rank specimens, they now had access to twenty, along with approximately thirty soldier-grade creatures. By sunset, they had significantly enhanced their food reserves and gathered enough exotic materials to craft superior equipment for the entire team.
As night fell over Millhaven, the city seemed somehow more secure, protected not only by its stone walls and brave defenders, but by the knowledge that true heroes walked among them—heroes who fought not for glory or gold, but from genuine care for the innocent lives they had sworn to protect.
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Day 36: A Fitting Reward for the Heroes of Millhaven
The morning after the devastating battle against the legion of Arak'nor that had assaulted the city walls, August and his team maintained their disciplined routine with a brief morning run through the streets of Millhaven. Of course, there were many curious eyes following their progress—it wasn't every day that residents witnessed people running in formation through their city, moving in synchronized rhythm while maintaining steady breathing patterns. The sight was both unusual and oddly beautiful to observe.
What struck the onlookers most was the organization of it all: the lead runner carefully modulated the pace to ensure that slower members could keep up with the group, creating a harmonious flow of movement that spoke of both discipline and consideration. The citizens had witnessed this same routine for the past three days, with the exception of yesterday due to the beast attack. Now, having observed the aftermath of the battle, they finally understood who these dedicated individuals truly were.
It hadn't been difficult to piece together their identities. These weren't merely guests passing through the city—they were the heroes who had stood on the walls yesterday, fighting alongside Millhaven's defenders. By participation and association, every member of their traveling group had earned the same reverence from the grateful populace.
Now, cheers and applause erupted spontaneously from residents whenever the runners passed through their neighborhoods. Curious citizens had approached various members of the group to inquire about their unusual morning ritual, and like a well-rehearsed script, the answer remained consistent across all who responded. Though each person phrased it differently, the core message never varied: this daily exercise routine was designed to improve physical health, stamina, and endurance.
The effectiveness of this regimen had become apparent to many of the migrants traveling with the caravan, regardless of age or gender. Those who had adopted the practice reported noticeable improvements in their ability to endure the rigors of long-distance travel.
After completing their morning exercise, August requested a meeting with his two traveling administrators. Uncle Andy, who had been with him since departing the forest, and Uncle Marcus, whom they had rescued from bandits during their journey, served as the backbone of their mercantile operations. Though they hadn't conducted much trade recently—their primary focus being the return journey to the village of Maya—August needed to discuss their beverage procurement situation.
The previous day's battle had prevented them from pursuing the best deals within the city for premium liquors. This wasn't necessarily a critical issue, as August's detailed review of their consumption ledger indicated they would still possess substantial reserves upon reaching the village. However, without careful rationing, their supplies would be depleted shortly after arrival. The premium beverages would need to be reserved for special occasions, and they would have to establish local brewing capabilities for everyday consumption in the future.
While they were deliberating over these logistical concerns, a polite knock interrupted their meeting.
"Who is it?" Andy inquired, a slight furrow appearing on the older man's brow—a subtle sign of his annoyance at the interruption. Despite his irritation, he maintained a cordial tone, understanding that someone would only disturb their private meeting for urgent matters.
"Uncle Andy, it's me, Becca," came the response through the door. "There's someone here looking for Young Master August—a lady from the lord's estate."
Becca was one of the children from the Greenfield family traveling with their caravan. The visitor she described could only be the middle-aged woman who served as Earl Hugo's head butler.
"I'll be there in just a moment, Becca," August replied, his voice carrying the authority that had naturally developed during his leadership of the caravan. Though Becca was older than August, she and others had come to respect him as their leader through his consistent demonstration of wisdom and capability.
"Understood, Young Master August. I'll inform the lady that you'll be right out."
With their immediate discussion concluded, August, Andy, and Marcus acknowledged they still faced the considerable task of processing the remaining Arak'nor carcasses. Yesterday's efforts had only managed to complete fifteen commander-rank and twenty soldier-rank specimens, leaving five commanders and ten soldiers still requiring attention.
They would have to accept that additional liquor purchases in Millhaven were unlikely, given the need to prepare the caravan for tomorrow's departure. Fortunately, their abundant meat supplies and magical storage crates ensured adequate provisions for the remainder of their journey.
August made his way to meet with the butler, whom he found waiting patiently in the inn's main reception area. Upon seeing him approach, she offered a respectful greeting.
"Good day, Young Master Finn. Lord Hugo has sent me to extend a personal invitation to you and your companions. He wishes to provide appropriate recognition and rewards for yesterday's heroic actions."
"Good day to you as well, madam. Thank you for making the journey here personally. I'll gather my team immediately."
After the butler departed, August assembled Team 1 and the Martin family members who had distinguished themselves during the battle, showcasing their renowned skills as a security-specialized household. Master Ben would also accompany them on this visit to Earl Hugo's keep.
Within an hour, they had prepared themselves appropriately and set out for the lord's residence. The reception they received from Millhaven's citizens was markedly warmer than during their initial arrival as simple traveling merchants. Word of their heroism had spread throughout the community, transforming them from strangers into celebrated protectors of the city.
The fifteen-minute walk to the keep's gates passed quickly, punctuated by grateful nods and respectful greetings from citizens they encountered along the way. Upon reaching the entrance, they were welcomed by the guards, who signaled for the massive reinforced doors to be opened. The mechanical systems groaned to life—the sound of heavy chains, turning gears, and counterweights working in concert to move the enormous barrier that served as one of the city's final defensive positions should the outer walls ever be breached.
Once inside, armed guards escorted them through the courtyard, where Lord Hugo awaited their arrival alongside his family. Buford, the earl's son and heir, stood with them. The young man had undergone a significant transformation since his initial encounter with August—where pride and arrogance had once blinded him to others' capabilities, leading to his defeat in their practice duel; he now displayed genuine respect and friendship.
Having fought alongside the defenders on the walls yesterday, Buford had witnessed firsthand the courage and skill that August possessed.
"August! You're here!" Buford exclaimed with enthusiasm, momentarily forgetting the formal protocols required in his father's presence during official proceedings.
Earl Hugo allowed this breach of etiquette to pass, understanding his son's genuine excitement. August and his companions, however, maintained proper decorum despite the informal greeting.
"We greet the lord and his family," August said as his entire group offered respectful bows.
"Welcome back to my home," Earl Hugo responded warmly, gesturing for his guests to adopt a less formal stance. "Please, do not act as though we are strangers. Have we not shed blood together in yesterday's battle?"
"Thank you, Lord Hugo," August replied, then turned to acknowledge the younger man. "And good day to you, Young Lord Buford."
This formal acknowledgment caused Buford to realize he had once again overstepped proper protocol, forgetting they were in an official setting. The young heir clearly still had much to learn about balancing personal relationships with the responsibilities of his position.
With the courtyard greetings concluded, they were escorted into the keep's great hall, where an elaborate feast had been prepared in their honor.
After everyone had taken their seats around the massive dining table, Hugo addressed his guests to establish the occasion's significance.
"Before we begin our meal, I want to explain why I have summoned you here once again. Please allow me to offer you the finest cuisine available as a tribute to our heroes. This feast represents merely the beginning of what I hope will be adequate recognition for your service."
August and his companions detected the underlying implication in the earl's words—clearly, additional rewards beyond this meal had been prepared. Hugo raised his goblet in salute, and they commenced their feast, enjoying the diverse array of expertly prepared dishes set before them.
An hour passed pleasantly as they savored multiple courses and desserts while engaging in cordial conversation. Finally, the meal concluded, and Hugo addressed the primary purpose of their gathering.
"I trust you have enjoyed the culinary offerings we prepared for you," the earl began, his tone becoming more formal and ceremonious. "Now, please allow me to express once again our profound gratitude for saving Millhaven from yesterday's crisis. As the lord of this realm and sworn protector of its people, words cannot adequately convey the depth of our appreciation. You provided hope in our darkest hour and prevented what could have been an absolute catastrophe."
Hugo paused, his expression growing thoughtful. "Regarding appropriate rewards for your heroism, I have consulted extensively with my retinue, ministers, and fellow nobles seeking a fitting tribute. You have already declined monetary compensation, instead directing those funds to the families of our fallen and wounded defenders—an act of selflessness that has humbled us all. However, simple gratitude would be insufficient recognition for warriors who have served Millhaven so valiantly."
The earl's eyes brightened as he continued. "I have learned through my inquiries that your administrators have been seeking premium liquors throughout the city. As a community of warriors, we certainly possess the finest examples of such beverages. Therefore, I present to you our tribute: ten barrels of our finest mead, ten barrels of our premium beer, and ten barrels of our most exceptional wine. Each barrel contains 250 kilograms, totaling 7.5 tons of the highest quality spirits our city can provide."
Hugo gestured to a steward, who began reading from an ornate scroll detailing the specifics of each beverage.
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The Gift of Millhaven to its Heroes
*A symbol of honor, celebration, and the eternal bonds forged between the warriors of Millhaven and their heroes.*
1. EMBERBREW MEAD
Type: Premium Honey Mead
Weight: 10 barrels (250 kg each)
Origin: The Mead Halls of Millhaven Keep
Appearance: Liquid gold with faint amber glimmers, possessing enough viscosity to cling elegantly to the rim of a cup
Flavor Profile: Deep, rich honey sweetness enhanced with warming spice notes—cinnamon bark, roasted clove, and a distinctive smoky aftertaste that lingers pleasantly on the palate
Background & Crafting:
Emberbrew Mead is crafted from honey harvested from Firewing Bees, a rare and aggressive species that feeds exclusively on the nectar of flameblossoms growing in the volcanic foothills surrounding Millhaven. The harvesting process is both dangerous and expensive, requiring skilled beekeepers wearing specialized protective equipment. After extraction, the precious honey is carefully infused with fireroot spice—a mountain herb known for its warming properties—and aged in oak casks that have been charred on the interior to impart the signature smoky character. Warriors traditionally consume Emberbrew before major battles, believing it kindles the "ember within," granting enhanced courage and battle fury.
2. STONEHEART STOUT
Type: Dark Premium Beer
Weight: 10 barrels (250 kg each)
Origin: The Deep Cellars of Millhaven's Ironmalt Hold
Appearance: Opaque obsidian black with a thick, creamy tan head; carbonation rises slowly and deliberately, as though emerging from deep within the earth itself
Flavor Profile: Rich, earthy maltiness with prominent notes of roasted barley, dark bread crust, and subtle undertones of bitter chocolate that provide perfect balance
Background & Crafting:
Brewed using barley cultivated in soil enriched by millennia of accumulated mountain ash, Stoneheart Stout undergoes fermentation with Ironmalt Yeast—a carefully maintained strain that has been cultivated in sealed mountain caverns for over three centuries. The brewing water is drawn from glacier-fed springs originating high on the nearby Mount Harrow, contributing exceptional purity and mineral content. Long, slow fermentation in specially constructed basalt-lined vats infuses the stout with remarkable depth and character. This brew symbolizes resilience and homecoming—traditionally served to warriors returning from extended campaigns to help them "set their feet back upon the stone of home."
MOONVEIL RESERVE
Type: Vintage Wine
Weight: 10 barrels (250 kg each)
Origin: The Moonveil Vineyards of Silverstrand Vale
Appearance: Deep crimson with mysterious silver streaks that become visible when swirled in proper lighting, creating an appearance reminiscent of liquid moonlight
Flavor Profile: Silken body featuring ripe blackberry and plum notes, complemented by subtle hints of night-blooming jasmine; the finish is long and elegant, evoking the sensation of a cool night breeze
Background & Crafting:
Moonveil Reserve can only be produced during years when the "Silver Moon"—a rare astronomical phenomenon—rises twice during a single harvest season. The grapes, known as Moonberry Clusters, must be hand-picked exclusively under moonlight, a practice believed to preserve their ethereal aroma and unique characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine ages for decades in oak casks lined with silver, a process that mellows the tannins while imparting an otherworldly smoothness that cannot be replicated through conventional methods. This wine is reserved for the most significant occasions: oath-taking ceremonies, wedding celebrations, and the formal sealing of great alliances.
Total Weight: 30 barrels × 250 kg = 7.5 tons
Collective Significance: These three exceptional liquors are never served together except to honored guests whose deeds merit not only the city's material wealth but the very soul of Millhaven's hospitality.
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August and his companions listened with growing amazement as the details of their extraordinary gift were explained. The generosity far exceeded their expectations, and the thoughtful selection demonstrated genuine appreciation for their service. Andy and Marcus, who had been concerned about their beverage supplies earlier that morning, exchanged relieved glances as they realized this gift would more than adequately address their needs.
The group expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Earl Hugo for his unprecedented generosity. Transportation of the barrels to their large custom wagons, Adrianne and Amaryllia, would be arranged later in the day. August would need to coordinate with his supply managers to ensure proper storage and secure placement within the wagons' magical preservation compartments.
As their formal meeting continued, Earl Hugo presented each member of the group with an official certificate of recognition, acknowledging their status as both heroes of Millhaven and honored traveling merchants. These documents would grant them permanent privileges within the city, including a twenty percent discount on all future purchases of services and goods and guaranteed respectful treatment during any return visits.
With their official business concluded, the group prepared to return to their temporary lodging at the private Louvere de Mont Inn, where they had resided for the past four days. Tomorrow would mark their departure from this beautiful mountain city, as they resumed their journey toward their ultimate destination—August's place of birth and the new home for their traveling companions: the village of Maya, nestled deep within the treacherous forests of Lonelywood.
The remainder of the day passed quickly as arrangements were made for transferring the premium liquors to their wagons. The magical storage systems easily accommodated the valuable cargo, ensuring optimal preservation throughout their continued journey.
As evening approached and the last barrel was secured, August reflected on their time in Millhaven. What had begun as a simple rest stop had evolved into something far more significant—they had found themselves defenders of a city, protectors of innocent lives, and now departed as honored friends rather than passing strangers.
With only hours remaining until tomorrow's sunrise would once again call them to the road, August felt a mixture of satisfaction and anticipation. Millhaven would always hold a special place in their memories, but home awaited them in the depths of Lonelywood Forest, and their journey was far from complete.