"Indeed," Caretaker Ivor affirmed, his expression grave. "And due to these events, the entire atmosphere at the farm has undergone a transformation. However, this change is perceptible only to those who are aware of the information I've shared with you."
In contrast to the immediate reactions of Stronghold Leader Zogar, who had rushed to meet Orion, or the initial scepticism displayed by the Caretakers upon hearing the account firsthand, Stronghold Leader Drakar responded with a solemn nod and entered a state of deep contemplation, his thoughts churning as he grasped the gravity of the situation.
Observing this, Caretaker Ivor inwardly sighed, genuinely impressed by the Stronghold Leader's unwavering composure. He proceeded to conclude their conversation, leaving no detail about Orion's plan unmentioned.
This time, the only reaction Caretaker Ivor managed to elicit from Stronghold Leader Drakar was a subtle furrowing of his brow and a quirked eyebrow. "Do you believe he's capable of achieving this?" Stronghold Leader Drakar asked.
"He claims that he can, but only time will reveal whether he succeeds or not," Caretaker Ivor replied. "However, I urge you to attend the meeting where we can discuss the future of our village. Additionally, if your schedule permits, meeting Orion might prove beneficial. His creation could potentially offer valuable assistance to both the warriors and the Strongholds."
Stronghold Leader Drakar promptly nodded in acknowledgement and replied, "Definitely, I'll make sure to have a conversation with him once I'm at the farm. I'll get to know Orion better and understand the kind of individual he is."
While he delivered this statement with the same controlled demeanour that characterized his words, there was an underlying sincerity in his voice that set this declaration apart.
Orion's reputation as the rumoured youth with a six-star potential for inner strength had already reached him. Yet, discovering the extent of Orion's capabilities had stirred something in Stronghold Leader Drakar, a resolve to explore every avenue to bring this young man into his fold, provided he found Orion to be the person he hoped he would be.
"Oh, and don't forget to be quick in your actions as well," Caretaker Ivor chimed in, a playful grin curving his lips. "Stronghold Leader Zogar wasted no time and left immediately to visit Orion once our discussion concluded. There's a chance he might aim to secure all the advantages before you even arrive."
Caretaker Ivor's smile held an understanding of the amicable competition that often unfolded between the two Stronghold Leaders. While the farm and village provided essential resources, there were additional incentives exclusively bestowed upon the stronghold that outperformed its counterpart. This aspect not only motivated the warriors but also fueled the friendly rivalry between the Stronghold Leaders, who stood to reap the most substantial rewards.
The rivalry over who could gain the upper hand in handling and eradicating the Vylkr vines along their borders was a natural outcome of this dynamic.
Stronghold Leader Drakar arched an eyebrow, a mixture of exasperation and amusement painting his expression. "Well, considering I know him quite well, I should have expected him to act this way."
Caretaker Ivor's lips turned into a wry smile, acknowledging that the blame might fall more on him for the situation. Nonetheless, with nothing more to add, he said, "That covers everything. I believe it's time for me to head back to the farm and get ready for tomorrow." He stood up from his seat, signalling his intention to leave.
Stronghold Leader Drakar let out a tired exhale, his voice reflecting the lateness of the hour. "Caretaker Ivor, it's getting quite late. Why not rest here in my Stronghold for the night and set out in the morning? I'll have some of my warriors fetch fruits and water for you to freshen up, and they can provide you with protection throughout the night."
There was no reason for Caretaker Ivor to decline, as he had anticipated this offer from Stronghold Leader Drakar. He simply nodded in agreement. "Very well then, it looks like I'll be spending the night under your roof."
Stronghold Leader Drakar nodded as Caretaker Ivor accepted, and then he stood up from his seat. He walked over to summon a warrior and instructed them to lead Caretaker Ivor to one of the vacant huts for him to rest. With his instructions given, Stronghold Leader Drakar observed Caretaker Ivor and the warrior as they exited the room.
Settling into a solitary contemplation for several moments, Stronghold Leader Drakar released a deep sigh and pursed his lips to emit a soft, melodic whistle into the air. Suddenly, as if the very shadows were solidifying and sculpting a form, an enigmatic bulge materialized near the door. It seemed as though the darkness itself was coalescing into a tangible shape, rising from the floor.
Emerging from the inky veil, a creature took form—a beast resembling an eagle, yet adorned with pitch-black feathers and two menacing talons that glistened ominously. Its beak boasted rows of sharp ebony fangs, and a lengthy, obsidian crest extended from its head to its tail. Gracefully, it soared to the room's centre, alighting upon the rich, bluish carpet before Stronghold Leader Drakar.
"Have you eaten already?" Stronghold Leader Drakar queried, his hand outstretching to tenderly scratch beneath the creature's beak.
In reaction, the beast unfurled its feathers, creating a striking display, and let out a resounding cry, "Eeeee! Eeeee!" Simultaneously, it commenced tapping its talons rhythmically upon the carpet—a gesture that Stronghold Leader Drakar had learned to interpret as the creature's expression of delight.
Naturally, when he initially acquired Shadow Talon from the Caravans—after some forceful persuasion, a dash of irresistible enticement, and a bit of skilful negotiation—the beast bore no resemblance to its current state.
It had been unrestrained, attempting fervently to tear a chunk of his flesh as a show of defiance. However, once he introduced it to a diet of Kalna fruits and some of the farm's other crops, its demeanour shifted drastically.
It evolved from unruly to docile, almost harmless, obediently heeding his every command.
