Eclipse of the Split God

The scene begins at a tranquil villa with white walls, surrounded by sprawling fields. Soldiers with modest equipment gather around a royal carriage as a beautiful lady steps inside, assisted by a rugged mercenary-type soldier. "Let's move!" he shouts. The lady waves goodbye to her parents from the carriage window, her expression tinged with both sadness and determination.

Their journey takes them to a town in shambles, a place they had hoped to restock supplies. The soldiers are visibly shaken. "My lady," the soldier explains, "orcs have destroyed the town. We must take another route through Darkwood Forest. It's dangerous, but we'll try to find an experienced hunter or mercenary to escort us."

"Do as you must, but make sure, safety comes first," the lady replies calmly.

Reluctantly, they change course toward Darkwood Forest. By evening, they reach a riverbank and stop to fish. The lady steps out of the carriage, captivated by the serene view. Her gaze falls on a mysterious figure—a man riding a skeletal horse, hunting fish with astonishing precision. Her heart skips a beat.

"Could he help us?" she asks the soldier. "Ask him if he's willing to escort me."

"My lady, it's too risky. We don't know who he is," the soldier cautions.

Unhappy but resigned, the lady returns to the carriage. "Fine, but follow him quietly," she insists.

As night falls, they trail the figure into Darkwood Forest. The lady's thoughts are consumed by the enigmatic hunter, his skill and presence leaving her both intrigued and embarrassed. The soldiers, uneasy, encircle the figure's camp. Suddenly, a fish bone flies past, narrowly missing a merchant traveling with them.

The rest you know.