The Cattle's Gold (A)

[KoalaRaptor]

The innkeeper waves Akhil over as he passes, seeming eager to make conversation. He is a mustached man that goes by the name Berni.

'I don't imagine you heard the news,' he begins, 'came in late late night, later than you even. Solis is at it again, rumors say that we might really be in trouble this time...' Akhil knew he must be speaking of the valley pass, for that is the only entrance large enough to squeeze an army from the north. Ever has Solis tried to invade from that way only to be stopped without fail by the Iksmiar Knights that defend it. 'But worry not, our defense holds still. I doubt it shall fall with any haste. Now, blessings of the festival to you Master Helveg,' he bids you, going back to scrubbing to countertops.

Akhil emerges in the early light of dawn and yet the streets are already crowded with men, women, and many young ones who are bubbling with excitement for the festivities to begin. Most are wearing their most vibrant garments of every color (a long lasting tradition) and many of the younger sport the popular turbans (equally colorful, though the cheapest are simple canvas) that are sold for cheap by the traders who join the festival from the Borderlands.

As the first ray of light shines from the peeking sun, a loud boom accompanied by a quake of the earth cues in an orchestra of both familiar and exotic instruments. There is much cheering and dancing as the rhythmic and familiar carnival music rings through the air...

[astavas]

Oh, it's getting better and better every year!, Akhil thinks noticing the excitement of the crowd. He makes his way slowly through the busy street, often squeezing through the most crowded points. He tries to keep an eye for a familiar face or maybe an interesting exhibit as he walks past various benches stuffed with clothing, carpentry, weaponry and everything someone could think of, junk or not.Milady, he says and steps aside gracefully as a strikingly beautiful woman, dressed in expensive apparel, passes by. She seems to return the smile but continues her way.


He has almost made it to the Old Bakery. He stops to listen a young boy, hardly over 8 years old, singing a traditional song along with his lute. Akhil is impressed by the performance and drops two golden pieces in the cup laying on the floor, causing the boy's eyes to widen with surprise.

He is finally there. He stops for a moment, his eyes moving from the building's entrance to the top and around. Delicious pastries come in mind and only then he realises that his stomach is empty and complaining.