Mike sat at the head of the large wooden table inside his mansion, his fingers drumming lightly against the surface. Brutus stood beside him, arms crossed, his piercing eyes focused on the map that lay before them. Kiera and Loran sat across from Mike, both leaning in with interest.
"So, we're really doing this?" Kiera asked, raising an eyebrow.
Mike nodded. "Yeah. If we want Drakos Fang to grow, we need allies. Ironwood Hollow is the closest settlement, and if we can establish good relations with them, it'll make things easier for us in the long run."
Loran smirked. "Or harder, if they don't like us."
Brutus rumbled a low chuckle. "Then we show them strength."
Mike grinned. "That's the spirit."
But before they left, preparation was key.
---
Gathering Supplies
The village buzzed with activity as word spread about the upcoming journey. Soldiers were checking their weapons, traders were packing travel supplies, and the blacksmith was busy sharpening blades.
Mike walked through the village, inspecting everything himself. He needed to make sure they were ready for any situation.
"Food, weapons, armor… check," he muttered, going over the checklist.
Kiera approached, holding a satchel filled with herbs. "I packed healing supplies. Just in case things go south."
Mike gave her an appreciative nod. "Good thinking."
Brutus was off to the side, instructing a few warriors on how to properly maintain their gear. His deep voice boomed over the training ground. "A dull blade is a useless blade! Keep your weapons sharp, and your reflexes sharper."
Loran, meanwhile, was making sure they had maps and enough supplies to last several days. "Traveling through the forest isn't going to be easy. We might run into trouble."
Mike glanced toward the horizon. "Then let's make sure we're ready for it."
---
The Night Before Departure
That evening, a bonfire burned in the center of Drakos Fang. Warriors, villagers, and traders gathered around, sharing food and laughter. The upcoming journey was on everyone's mind, but instead of fear, there was excitement.
Brutus sat by the fire, sharpening his massive axe. "Tomorrow, we prove that Drakos Fang is a name worth remembering."
Mike smirked. "And hopefully, we won't have to fight to do it."
Kiera grinned. "Yeah, but if we do, at least we're prepared."
Loran sighed dramatically. "And here I was hoping for a peaceful negotiation."
Mike chuckled. "With us? Peaceful is never guaranteed."
As the fire crackled and the stars shone above, Mike felt a surge of anticipation. Tomorrow, they would set off on their first real journey outside of Drakos Fang.
And whatever lay ahead, they were ready.
---
TO BE CONTINUED…