Warriors: Arryn Mauntelle - Chapter 18 - Haven
Travelling in a small group was a pleasant experience. We made quick work of the miles between us and the mountains.
Horses helped to speed our journey, I found it odd that we didn’t receive a pack horse from the Chief. It was a struggle to fit our supplies in our individual bags on our mounts along with all our weapons. Krem was also strangely insistent that I bring as much of my arsenal as I could. “You never know what you might need on the road,” he’d said, winking.
With our small group, I didn’t question his words and I understood his logic. Weapon mastery was my special skill after all, and I liked feeling special and useful. My horse was packed the fullest by a good margin.
Despite the Lieutenant’s request for me to bring the heat, there wasn’t a great need for it. It was a welcome break from all the recent excitement if I was being honest. Between Zevran, Denerim and the Breach opening, I was nearing my fill of drama.
We did encounter the odd skirmish or two on our way. Darkspawn were made bold by the Breach opening and now with the arrival of demons, they were attacking not only in broad daylight, but along main trade roads as well.
Fighting Darkspawn was one of my least favorite activities. Their blood and viscera always seemed to leave a greasy film that resisted even my best cleaning solutions. No matter how hard or how long I scrubbed, there always seemed to be a lingering stain I’d find later. Gods how I missed strong solvents like paint thinner. A good dose of ethanol would cut right through that greasy layer.
Soon enough, snow began to fall, and we put our winter gear to good use. The fleece linings kept us warm and comfortable and the cold and chill set in. Nights were especially frigid, and I had to admit I was looking forward to a nice warm bed once we arrived at Haven.
As the Frostback Mountains loomed high above us, I knew we must be getting close. The road began to curve upwards, getting steeper and more difficult for the horses to carry us and our gear. Often, we had to walk along and lead the horses by the rein. Usually, to give the animal the best rest I could, I carried my massive great sword on my back.
The others laughed and jeered at me, joking about who was the real horse between me and the four-legged creature I was leading.
Thankfully, my torment was soon to end as we finally approached the gates of Haven.