Among Monsters (Tensura)

Chap 11.

Early in the morning, James sat in his small room at the inn, mentally preparing himself to leave the city and head toward the Kingdom of Dwargon, with a planned stop at Jura Forest's marshlands. Dressed in a black tunic and pants, along with a hooded cloak that cast shadows over his face, he checked that his sword and coin pouch were securely fastened at his waist. Satisfied, he stood, taking a steadying breath.

'The sooner I'm on the road, the better. Every day here risks exposure.'

Heading downstairs, he nodded to the innkeeper at the counter. They exchanged simple goodbyes, and James thanked her briefly before heading to the stables to retrieve his horse. He guided the horse to the bustling market, where he bought enough supplies for the long journey ahead, carefully tucking the sack of provisions behind his saddle. With everything in place, James directed his horse toward the city gates, following the road that would lead him first to the Jura Forest.

The first days of travel were a steady routine. James would ride for several hours, taking occasional breaks where he would lead his horse off the path to rest. At night, he would activate Sovereign's Sanctuary, transporting both himself and his horse into the safe haven of his Sovereign's Amphitheater. There, he'd light a small fire, eat a simple meal, and get a few hours of sleep. His rest felt light and refreshing within the sanctuary, as though the very air revitalized him.

Each morning, he would exit the Sanctuary, continuing down the road toward Jura. He also took advantage of these breaks to improve his swordsmanship, summoning Blade Knight within the Sanctuary to spar and refine his techniques. Although still far from a master, he could feel his form beginning to take shape, his movements growing more deliberate with each session.

On the fourth evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, James finally reached the marshlands that marked the beginning of Jura's sprawling wilderness. He urged his horse forward, approaching with caution. This land, he knew, was home to the lizardmen, a proud and guarded tribe. Not wanting to appear hostile, he slowed his pace, guiding his horse gently through the softer earth.

Before long, he noticed movement up ahead—a group of lizardmen, about ten in number, approaching on mounts that resembled giant reptiles, almost like the raptors he remembered from movies. Their eyes fixed on him with sharp curiosity and suspicion as they drew closer, circling his horse to inspect him.

One of them, clearly the leader by his armor's intricate design, raised a clawed hand, signaling the others to halt. He leaned forward, studying James intently before speaking in a deep, resonant voice.

"You are far from any human settlement, stranger. State your purpose here in our lands."

James kept his hands visible and non-threatening, inclining his head respectfully. "I'm a traveler, making my way toward Dwargon. I seek to pass through your lands peacefully," he said, choosing his words carefully. "I've heard of the lizardmen and hoped to learn more about your tribe while here."

The leader watched him with a wary gleam in his eye. "It is rare for a human to approach with such a request. We know not if we can trust you."

James took a small step forward, speaking earnestly. "I understand your caution. If there's any way I can prove my intentions, I'm willing to try. I have skills that may be useful, and I'm more than capable of looking after myself."

The lizardman's eyes narrowed. After a moment, he gave a subtle nod. "You may come with us. But do not think we will let our guard down."

The group led him deeper into the marshlands. As they walked, James felt the eyes of the lizardmen on him, measuring and studying his every move. After some time, they arrived at a small clearing where a number of other lizardmen had gathered around a communal fire.

The chief invited him to sit by the fire, and James took the opportunity to learn more about their customs and way of life. Their cautious acceptance of him was clear, and he reciprocated with polite restraint, sharing bits of his own background without revealing too much.

In this land filled with uncertainty, James sensed he was on the edge of gaining their trust—or, at the very least, their tolerance. He kept his gaze steady, his words measured, knowing that these lizardmen might prove to be powerful allies or formidable foes. The journey was only beginning, and each step brought new risks and possibilities.

End of chap.