The remainder of the trip was uneventful and quiet and the weather was fair. After only a few hours of traveling on the road, the group veered off into the forest. Birds chirped and a soft breeze rustled through the trees and bushes, in the distance Deer could be seen.To anyone else it would be a beautiful day to travel but for the group it was likely much different. None other than Dralith had fought Daedra before and it was clear in their eyes to what their thoughts drifted to. The prospect of fighting creatures of Oblivion was both terrifying and exciting, perhaps one or the other for some of them. Noticeably the clouds darkened to a shade of red not unlike the color of blood and an air of danger crept through the trees. A small rise topped with rocks lay ahead and Dralith fell into a crouch, motioning for the group to do the same. Though not all of them were adept at stealth it would do them good not to stand tall and reveal themselves quite yet. The Hero of Kvatch crept up to the rocks and peered over to observe the gate. 

It was an archway made of rough, cracked stone with spines on its flanks. Large obsidian spikes the size of a man rose from the ground around it and seemed to be tipped with thick blood. The gateway itself was like a wreath of living flames trying to escape and burn the land. Truly a chilling sight. Eight red robed and hooded figures stood before the gate, keeping watch. There was a ninth individual.. upon closer examination however, it was far from mortal. It wore armor that resembled a set of spiked black Plate that had been splattered with the blood of countless enemies. The creatures skin was a dark shade of red and two small horns protruded from its head. A Dremora. It carried only a simple Elven Claymore. A low ranked Churl. 

Dralith ducked back behind the rock. "I count nine total. The ones in red robes are Mythic Dawn Cultists. Little threat but don't underestimate them. The ninth is a Dremora Churl." He gestured for them to take a peek for themselves to see their enemy. "Take a good look. There will be plenty of those within the gate. Karnog. This one I leave to you, everyone else take care of the Cultists." 

The big Orc grunted and nodded his approval after taking a look. Karnog was eager to test his might against the creature. "And where will you be in all of this?" He asked.
Dralith grinned. "Why, I shall be right here, observing your performance." The Dunmer chuckled then peered over the rocks once more, his expression returning to that of a focused killer. "Be careful and watch eachothers backs down there."

With a nod and a grin of his own, Karnog leaped over the rocks with his axe in hand. With partial reluctance, and some excitement, others followed him or skirted around to fight from a more advantageous position for their skills.