39 - 42 Erathisway, 4520: On to Schwarz Junction

Arkomir writes...   This morning began as most do on the road — waking early, sharing a simple breakfast, and packing our gear in preparation for departure. Before leaving, we made sure to inform Commander Welling of our plans and said our goodbyes to Hanirash and Lament. With farewells complete, we left Battervold behind and set out along the road toward Schwarz Junction.   By afternoon of our third day of travel, we arrived at our destination. Schwarz Junction greeted us with a somber air — a dark, somewhat brooding town crowned by a fort perched on the hill above. The settlement is encircled by walls, with a handful of small hamlets scattered just beyond their boundary. Two major roads, the Beltway and the Ostway, intersect at the town’s heart. Schwarz Junction is a touch smaller than Belhaim, but no less significant. We located a decent tavern, The Wayrest Inn, where we decided to rest for the night. The fort above, we learned, serves as the westernmost stronghold of the Middenvold Cavaliers — an imposing presence and a reminder of the frontier's vigilance. The evening passed quietly. The inn was warm, the beds comfortable, and for now, we rest — ready for what lies ahead.