Breakout the Cake

Crystal Quay

Later that day the boys had a free moment and had found their way to the library. Zelnard loved Geography and longed to learn about every place in Aethoria and hoped one day he might even visit them all. He cracked open a travel book about Kefar and read. "Welcome to Crystal Quay, the second largest city on Argent Isles. It stands as a marvel of coastal architecture and magical governance. This circular city, encased within formidable blue-grey walls and a protective crystal powered dome, exudes an air of both security and exclusivity. Its ports and docks bustle with constant maritime activity, as boats and ships perpetually arrive and depart. Despite its vibrant port life, the city's enclosed nature fosters a standoffish and unwelcoming culture toward outsiders, while nurturing a close-knit, familial bond among its residents. Governed by a unified Council of Mages representing all mage casts, Crystal Quay is a model of magical and administrative cohesion. Home to fewer than 2,000 inhabitants, this well-defended enclave balances its insular character with the dynamic pulse of a major port city." I can't wait to go see it again." Zelnard expressed with anticipation to Jabar. "It's your birthday Z! Least its around this time...let's get some cake." Jabar said thinking it funny but also somewhat serious hoping Zelnard might be up for the illicit adventure. "You know what? It is my birthday and I am going to have some birthday cake and I will eat the whole thing... and share with you of course!" Mortaz said there was a cake stand in the market that has unbelievable cakes and we are going to have one, you in?" Jabar hesitated but since it was his suggestion he had to say yes. "We will wait till everyone is assigned to their room for night read and then you and I will sneak out!" Zelnard whispered to his very best secret keeping friend. As the sun dipped into the edge of the water, casting a yellow glow on the calm waters around the monastery, Zelnard and Jabar slipped out of their quarters with the stealth of two mischievous cats. They navigated the winding corridors, dodging the occasional wandering Mage. Dunstor’s room was the last one before the large window by the main gate and was the last hurdle to be negotiated in their mission. Dunstor’s door was open and his room seemed unoccupied which worried the two but made climbing out of the window next to it a much easier task. They dropped down the two metres to the ground on the other side and found themselves free and outside, the cool night air a refreshing contrast to the stuffy confines of the monastery.

The path to Crystal Quay was familiar yet eerie in the twilight. They dared not light a torch as it would be seen for miles. The boys made their way through the shadowy woods along the side of the road making sure not to be a silhouette that could be identified by a passing journeyman or merchant. They were laughing and shushing each other, the excitement of their adventure bubbling over. After a good hour of sneaking, tripping, and more shushing, they finally reached the gates of Crystal Quay and they walked in as if it was what they did everyday. The nights guards barely glanced at them amongst the tens of citizens, mages, and inhabitants coming and going to the bustling port city. Though Zelnard had rarely been to the far seaside end of town he led the way to the busy night markets of Crystal Quay as if it were a regular haunt. "Come on Jabs.. this way." He laughed and spoke all at once as he encouraged his friend with an excitement he could not contain. The sight was nothing short of magical. Lanterns of every colour imaginable hung from stalls, lit with lightning bugs, casting a warm, inviting glow. The air was thick with the scent of spiced zargos meat and dried fish of all kinds, roasting borog nuts, and sweet pastries. Merchants called out, displaying their wares, from shimmering silks to intricately carved mage stones and gems. But Zelnard and Jabar had only one thing on their minds: cake. They wandered the market, wide-eyed and filled with awe with a touch of anxiety about being so far from the monastery without a leave pass. There was so much to see, so much to take in. A street performer juggled flaming torches, the fire reflecting in the boys’ excited eyes. Another stall displayed exotic fruits, many from Vrielia Bloomlands and beyond, their colours so vibrant they seemed to glow. But finally, after what felt like hours, they spotted it...a baker’s stall and their goal.

Thy Quests To Zelnard the sights and smells created a great memory of a most wonderous place. What smell or sight brings back a strong memory for you?