NOVEL FROG LAND OF THE ELVES
The tension inside Alpha 2's truck was palpable as they navigated through the last of the treacherous mountain path, the dim tactical lights casting eerie shadows on the jagged rocks around them. Private Swiftail gritted his teeth, fighting off the motion sickness that had plagued him through the twists and turns of the SkyRocks. Finally, as they emerged onto the ancient Elven Road, he felt a wave of relief wash over him.
Thessa Brightclaw, jolted awake multiple times by the rocking of the cab, was in no better mood. She rubbed her eyes and adjusted her seat, trying to find a comfortable position. Shara Stoneclaw, focused on her communication equipment, had been diligently monitoring the static and signal fluctuations throughout their passage. But now, her gaze shifted from the blinking lights to the window, her breath catching as the barren rocks gave way to a lush, open expanse.
Sergeant Targzon remained at his post on the Remote Weapons Station, vigilant and alert. He had been part of a recon team here only a month before, ambushed by Austorian forces hiding among the rocks. The memory lingered in his mind, fueling his anxiety that they might still be watched by unseen eyes as they entered the Elven Plains.
As the convoy rumbled into the plains, the landscape transformed. The moonless early morning sky veiled the land in shadows, with only the soft glow of tactical lights illuminating the path ahead. The tall grasses swayed gently, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of Elven flora, creating an atmosphere that felt both serene and surreal.
Kael Swiftail felt the tension slowly leave his shoulders as he absorbed the tranquil scene around him. The hum of the truck’s engine combined with the distant calls of nocturnal creatures, forming a calming, almost hypnotic melody. “Hey Thessa, feeling refreshed now?” he teased, casting a playful grin at the medic. “The SkyRocks were a bit of a rollercoaster, huh?”
Thessa rubbed her eyes, managing a smile. “Well, Kael, your driving didn’t exactly help. Felt like I was in a tumble dryer back there.”
Shara, momentarily disconnected from her communication gear, interjected with a smirk. “Enough banter, you two. This isn’t a joyride. Let’s keep it professional.”
Sergeant Targzon, chuckling at their banter while keeping a careful watch through the RWS, added, “Keep it down. Some of us are trying to watch for Austorians lurking in the shadows.”
As the lighthearted exchange continued, Thessa couldn’t resist teasing Targzon. “Sergeant, you should’ve brought a pillow up there. It’s been a long night, and we wouldn’t want our vigilant gunner to doze off.”
Targzon grinned back. “I’d rather stay sharp, Brightclaw. Can’t afford to miss any surprises out here.”
After what felt like an eternity, the convoy finally cleared the last of the oppressive maze of the SkyRocks. As they rounded the final bend, the world opened up before them. The Elven Plains unfolded like a vast, living tapestry, bathed in the soft, ethereal glow of the full moon. Tall grasses danced in the wind, their silvery blades catching the moonlight, while ancient trees stood sentinel, whispering secrets to the night air.
Inside Alpha 2, the team shared a collective gasp of awe. “It’s like stepping into a different world,” Shara murmured, her usual guarded expression softened by wonder.
Thessa leaned forward, her face illuminated by the moonlight. “I never imagined such beauty existed,” she whispered, as if speaking too loudly would shatter the magic around them.
Sgt. Targzon allowed himself a brief moment to take in the scene, but his eyes remained vigilant. “Just remember,” he muttered, “beauty can hide danger. Stay alert.”
Kael glanced at Targzon, his expression serious. “You think we’re being watched?”
“Always,” Targzon replied quietly. “Especially here. But let’s enjoy the view while we can.”
1st Lt. Tarfire’s voice crackled over the intercom, his tone softer than before. “Take it in, team. But don’t lose focus. The Plains are beautiful, but they’re also a battlefield. Any number of things could be out there waiting for us. So stay alert, Stay alive.”
The convoy moved steadily across the moonlit plains, each member carrying a newfound sense of determination. The Elven Plains were a sight to behold, but they also held untold secrets and dangers. The mission was far from over, and each one knew that the serenity of the plains could quickly turn into chaos.