Chapter 48: Tamer District (1/2)

”What are you waiting for, Enatsu? Come on, hop up!” Yoichi rejoiced. Stretching his arm towards his friend, he invited him to climb to the mighty Ichiro.

”Are you sure it doesn't bother it? It's part of the team now, that's true, but... it looks shifty...” Enatsu stammered. Taking courage, he grabbed his companion's hand and clung forcefully to the back of the horse.

Ichiro did a slight rotation of the body, allowing its two riders to settle down. Yoichi stayed ahead and Enatsu behind, laying hold of his partner's back.

”When we reach Goldhaven, I'll buy a saddle big enough to hold us both! Hahah!” the young tamer chuckled. Due to its massive musculature, Ichiro's back was not very comfortable to clench between their legs.

”I'd say... I think you're ri… iiight!” Enatsu's words were interrupted by the horse's departure. Without any effort, it started towards the dense vegetation that bounded the clearing.

The two adventurers left the lake behind them. Sora followed them from above, fluttering as nimbly as ever.

The large bushes and low branches of the trees did not seem to hinder Ichiro's advance. The steed had inherited part of its geographical memory: knowing that place by heart, it used its bulk to crush the shrubs under its hooves, heading south.

A new sunset illuminated the delightful Bronzeforest with its reddish light. Knowing himself safely, Yoichi was travelling to Goldhaven with a new spirit.

Although his new quest explicitly required joining a guild, he had not forgotten the Blackvault Mines issue. The man who had entrusted him with the recovery of the mysterious missing necklace seemed ready to shell out a large reward.

Guild or not, I'm sure a little money would suit me. Yoichi thought, clinging to Ichiro's mane to stay in balance.

Half the time compared to the outward journey, the two adventurers travelled through the stretch of forest that separated them from the North Gates of the capital of Tentochu.

As if it were a piece of art painted on canvas, Goldhaven sprang over the trees. Its high white walls were enriched by the shades of sunset red, which made all colours warmer and breathtaking.

Fewer people than that morning were lined up near the large gates of the northern entrance. Gradually slowing down the pace, Ichiro led Yoichi and Enatsu to the foot of the walls.

”Perhaps it is appropriate to get off the horse,” Enatsu suggested in a low voice. ”The guards are already glaring at us,” he added.

In addition to the men in armour who took care of controlling the outgoing and incoming people, Ichiro's majestic appearance also drew the gazes of other travellers.

Yoichi and Enatsu dismounted with a jump, landing on the ground.