LRAB Chapter 26 Rotherhollow
Chapter 26 Rotherhollow
It turned out that Tweety wasn't that dumb after all. Ethan only had to walk for a few hours on the rugged road less traveled recommended by the bird before he stumbled onto a regular carriage path.
The road was much wider than the one before, its surface packed down by countless wheels and hooves over time. It wound gently through the trees, cutting a path that was clearly well-used.
The sight of it sent a wave of relief through him, though he remained cautious. A busy road meant people—and potentially more danger.
Thankfully, it looked like there was nothing to worry about. Just a few seconds after he arrived a carriage passed by him. It was a horse-drawn carriage and there was a family sitting on the back side.
Another couple of minutes later, two more carriages passed by. This time it was a merchant caravan. The first carriage was filled with barrels and sacks, likely goods for trade, while the second carried a few rough-looking guards armed with swords and crossbows. Their eyes flicked toward Ethan as they passed but they didn't spare him another glance.@@@@
Ethan let out a breath he did not realize he was holding. But he knew this wasn't over. It was just beginning. The real danger would start when he stepped into the city. That was when he needed to be careful. Depending on just how powerful the man who wanted him dead was everything could change.
Watching the carriage disappear into the distance, Ethan tightened his grip on the straps of his backpack and then started to walk. Another hour later he decided to go about a different way. He hitchhiked onto a carriage dismissing both of his pets.
The farmer's cart had slowed, weaving through what sounded like a bustling street.
Ethan sat up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and blinking at the scene before him. The city gates loomed in the distance, tall and imposing, with stone walls stretching as far as he could see.
People bustled about, carts laden with goods, travelers of all sorts entering and leaving the city. The air smelled of dust, roasted meat, and something faintly metallic—perhaps from the smithy nearby.
"Where are we?" Ethan asked groggily, turning to the farmer.
"South Gate of Rotherhollow," the man replied without looking back. "You'll want to hop off soon if you don't plan on following me to the grain depot."
Ethan nodded, stretching his stiff limbs. He grabbed his backpack and sword, making sure everything was still intact. "Thanks for the ride."
The farmer grunted in acknowledgment as Ethan jumped off the cart, landing lightly on the packed dirt path leading to the gates. He adjusted his pack and blended into the crowd, his senses on high alert. Rotherhollow seemed much larger than he'd anticipated. The tall gates, fortified watchtowers, and steady flow of people made it clear this was a major trade hub.
The guards at the gate wore polished armor, their sharp eyes scanning the crowd. Ethan's heart pounded as he approached, but he forced himself to look casual. His bald head and changed appearance were hopefully enough to avoid any immediate recognition.