With an aloofness born of professionalism, Carslin makes way to the nearest of the entrenched earthworks. Taciturn, yet efficient, Carslin says little as he guides the party through their first exposure to the Mushfens. What little he does say is akin to constructive correction, be it a subtle piece of flora that would cause painful blistering or a colorful insect whose touch is best avoided due to it causing deep slumber.
The environs of the Mushfens is just on the other side of comfortable, as the humidity is just too moist and the heat just above reason. It is muggy, weighty, and ever present. It wears upon a person not use to such places, and even those with practice and acclimatization find it irksome and invasive.
Each hour of trekking feels like four, be it due to exertion or the constant ambiance of the flora and fauna of the swamp, and just when it starts to feel like another step is too much the guide points toward the raised stakewall. Constructed of local wood and mortared with native clay, soil, and turf. Within the palisade is a simple two story keep crafted of the same materials as the walls of the rally point.
"Now comes the difficult part," understates Carslin. "We need to navigate the switchbacks and see if anything's made this one their home since last used."
Upon the guide's commentary, the switchbacked trenches become more evident along the raised hillside that the fort resides. Similar to a rudimentary maze, it is an earthwork designed to slow invaders and make it easy for the defenders to hold off greater numbers with fewer.
"Who's up for scouting?"