Graff and Tom got to know each other better as they worked their way through the forest. Tom learned that Elias Estorage was now burned with the dead buried. He himself was from Gryphon's Rest, the closest large city over the border. He was explaining geography and cultural layout for Graff, "Valia is the nearest decent-sized city and the first not part of a hold. If you can get through the borderhold on this border without causing a fuss, then you should be in the clear to reach Valia. But if raiders survived the destruction of your village, then they should know better and keep going. Gryphon's Rest providers better opportunity to sell stolen art."
Graff nodded, "I only heard mention of Valia, and those speaking of it died relatively quickly. Not many would have escaped once they started the massacre. But those that did can make a fortune from what they took."
Tom paused as he read the trail they were following, "You best be careful. You are used to the mountains and the think forests of this mountain range. Here there are species and beasts of fantasy that are considered old wives tales in the places you are traveling to. Do you have a cover when you go? No, don't tell me. Just consider it."
"I already have one in place. I just hope it passes muster."
"You came from a village of strong reputation in this area. Our people, the natives of this area no matter our species, has a strong respect for the spiritual side of things. Be aware that where you travel things are different. You know what a Herald is?"
"I've heard of them... "
"They are real. Gryphon's Rest was named after a famous pair shortly after the founding of Gryphon's Heights. That be the capital."
Graff only nodded, pausing as movement caught his eye.
Tom paused, "I know you are a fighter. You're attire speaks of this." His voice barely a whisper, he explained, "I want you to learn something. It might help you out down the road." Tom pulled out a pouch and opened it. Inside was a mixture Graff didn't recognize. Tom took a pinch of it and together they stalked the prey ahead of them.
They were close when Tom took the pinch and tossed it on himself. In a moment he was gone. A few minutes later, a large deer bounded up from where it had been grazing only to fall with a slashed throat. And then Tom was standing there.
Graff rushed over to him, complete surprise on his face. Tom quickly explained, "That metal you have growing in this mountain range, it is rare. Only found in this area."
Graff nodded, as it was the secret ingredient in their artwork.
Tom continued, "Grind it up and mix it with various herbs. Usually those that increase concentration and focus. Then simply, mentally, focus on bending light around you. Makes it appear that you are not there."
"huh," Graff was floored. "I think I can tell this is something not to repeat."
"Secret of this region. Actually, I learned of it at your village, but it was something that they were not teaching anymore. Said that the use of the metal had better uses. Though that really baffled me."
Graff grinned, "I don't know about better. This use will be more helpful than anything else."
Tom grinned back, "Well let's go take care of this deer and have supper. Then I'll help you get set up. Just remember, life outside the range is very different."
Memories of the raiders and their abusive language returned. Graff nodded. Oh he knew. As if sensing the direction of his thoughts, Tom added, "And don't think the lands you travel to are like the raiders. Many of the people there are good people. There was just some bad apples mixed with bad apples from other trees."
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