Thanh Zhao stared through the windows of the Wolves Den Inn, taking in the majesty of the mountains and valley. He wondered what unknown people made their homes among the massive rock, piercing both earth and sky as they reached to the heavens. Well, not people -
person was more accurate.
He had been sent to this small settlement with a clear purpose, but little guidance. An ancient sage lived in this remote area, cut off from all contact with the followers of Iro-Shu. Thanh was instructed to find this man and learn from him.
This sojourn was the first time Thanh had spent more than a few days from the safety and "comfort" of his monastic life. From as far back as he could remember, he had lived in the monastery, learning from the followers of Irori. In truth, he came to the monastery as a wide-eyed 6-year old when his mother - abandoned by Thanh's father - had deposited him in the hopes of giving him a better life away from the rough streets and bullying children.
After weeks of grueling travel as a caravan guard, he was physically near to his destination, but he knew the previous weeks and miles were merely the first step on his journey. The coming trials - whatever they may be - were sure to prove far more taxing.
He gripped the bow strung across his chest and whispered a small prayer before turning back to the room.
