Quickly, Justin made his way back to the group of young nobles. As much as he was ready to run, he had other plans to ensure everyone’s safety and survival. His friends, who had been awaiting his exit, rejoined him.
“Quite the character, isn’t he?” Harrington said as Justin approached, trying to diffuse the tension with a light-hearted tone. “You weren’t kidding about the intrigue.”
Justin forced a laugh, but inside, his mind was racing. “The Baron and I have come to a sort of understanding. You know how it can be between friends. I may have teased him a bit too hard. Unfortunately, my companions and I must beg our leave from your wonderful party.” He gave a noble bow. “Thank you for the invitation, Lord Harrington. It’s been…enchanting.”
“Likewise, Mr. Talemaker. Come back anytime. But before you go, guess what? I received word from Mayor Carlisle that the gate to Thalgar’s Tunnel has been opened again.”
Justin blinked in surprise. “Wondrous news!”
“Yes,” Harrington said. “The mayor left soon after you and the Baron first started talking. Within minutes, I had news that the traders from the north side were complaining it was a safety issue to leave it closed.”
“Gods be praised!” Bohemond said, his eyes lighting up. “So, still heading after that Vault in the Everwood now?”
Justin smiled, seizing the opportunity. “Yes, that was the plan. Would you care to join us?”
Bohemond’s chest swelled with pride. “I’d be honored! I’m a Level 10 Knight with a Vanguard Focus. If you need a stout defender, I’m your man!”
“We already have a tank,” Kargan said.
Justin stepped in to smooth things over. The Orc didn’t seem to understand the point of involving Bohemond. “We could always use another party member, Bohemond. After all, the Everwood is no place to venture lightly. Having a Knight of your caliber would be a great asset to our group.” He smiled warmly, making sure Bohemond felt appreciated.
Bohemond’s pride softened into a grin. “Then I’ll gather my things and meet you at the gate. The sooner we leave, the better!”
“You’re right,” Justin said. “We plan to leave within minutes. Try to hurry. If you’re not there we’re likely to go on without you.”
“By Arion!” Bohemond exclaimed, his eyes wide. He gave a quick bow to Harrington. “I thank you for this wonderful party, Mr. Harrington.” Then, to Justin: “I shall we waiting.”
As Bohemond left, Harrington chuckled. “I’d join you myself were it not for this blasted party!”
Justin chuckled, giving Harrington a sympathetic smile. “Ah, the burdens of hosting! Someone must keep the festivities lively while the rest of us go gallivanting through dark tunnels. But don’t worry, Lord Harrington—there will be plenty of tales to share when we return. Next time, you can join us.”
Harrington laughed, shaking his head. “I’ll hold you to that, Talemaker. Safe travels!”
Justin glanced at his friends, and they all exchanged a knowing look. At least Lila and Eldrin understood that Bohemond’s presence would be their insurance—an important noble that Valdrik couldn’t simply murder without consequence. Even a Cant of Amnesia wouldn’t be enough to fully cover the Baron’s tracks if he got his hands dirty.
But a single high-ranking Knight wasn’t enough. For good measure, Justin faced the crowd, adopting the air of a merry drunk. “Hear ye, hear ye!”
To Justin’s surprise, a good half of the nobles turned, and he had their full attention. He capitalized immediately. “Our party here is going to raid a Vault in the Everwood! I propose a friendly wager. A hundred crowns to the first party that clears it! Who’s in?”
A ripple of laughter and excitement spread through the room as several nobles voiced their interest. Some were already discussing their plans to join the hunt, while others laughed at the prospect of such an adventure.
Valdrik’s eyes narrowed from across the room as he watched the growing enthusiasm. His control was further slipping. With so many nobles joining the expedition, it would be far more difficult for Valdrik to act without drawing unwanted attention. He’d have to wait until later to pursue them, hopefully giving enough time to lose him in the depths of Drakendir. With the Mark of Death removed, their options had opened significantly. No longer did they have to head for Mont Elea. Of course, Eldrin still might want to report Valdrik’s activities, but Justin wasn’t too sure about that anymore. For all the Baron’s deceit, Justin was certain a lot of what he’d shared was true.
Justin would have time to figure all that out later.
“We should hurry,” Eldrin said. “It would seem things have gotten a lot more…interesting.”
They headed for the coatroom, retrieving their packs. They left by the front entrance, and when Justin looked over his shoulder, they were not being followed.
From the sun high above them, they’d already spent far too much time in the Harrington House. Eldrin set a fast pace across the front yard and through the Gate.
Only when the street turned did they run.
----------------------------------------
When they reached the entrance of Thalgar’s Tunnel, it was indeed open, and much to Justin’s surprise and relief, Bohemond Ashcroft was already waiting. The tall, broad-shouldered Knight cut an imposing figure in his gleaming plate armor, complete with a visor with the face open. He stood out drastically from the revelers in Windfall’s streets. The man looked like a born and bred from his size and broad shoulders. A large, intricately engraved shield rested against his side, featuring what had to be the emblem of his house: a roaring sabretooth cat, its fangs bared, and claws poised. His armor was adorned with small, engraved symbols of his faith—a sunburst representing Arion, the God of Power.
“Hope this turns out okay,” Lila said quietly. They were still too far to be heard.
“It'll be fine," Justin said. "So, what’s the Knight class do, anyway?"
“It’s like a Warrior, but more specialized in defense,” Eldrin said. “It’s a Power Class as well, and they favor one-handed weapons like maces, sword, and hand-axes, along with shields. The Warrior class is more balanced and can specialize in either offense or defense.”
Indeed, Bohemond seemed to be the quintessential heavy armor and sword-and-shield type. At least at first glance, it seemed he would be a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield, the steadfast tank who could hold a line against overwhelming odds.
At last, they came within a few paces of the Knight. He gave a rigid nod. “Well met. I’m pleased you’ve made all haste.”
“You as well,” Justin said. He quickly introduced the others, not sure if Bohemond had caught their names at the party, as well as their class and abilities. When he got to Kargan, he simply said he was a healer, knowing that Blood Wardens often faced prejudice. Thankfully, Bohemond didn’t question it.
Bohemond nodded impatiently. “Arion willing, we’ll reach the Vault before any of our competition gets too far ahead. I’ve already spotted a few other partygoers nosing around down here. A few of them were even on horseback.”
Justin nodded, pleased that his words were having the intended effect. “Well, where we’re going, horses can’t follow. I’m confident we can reach the Vault first.”
“I’m glad for it,” Bohemond replied, his eyes gleaming with fervor. “As the Faithful of Arion, and those gifted by the Creator with a class, it is our sacred duty to dispatch Vaults. Allow me to lead the prayer before we go into the Tunnel.”
Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.
Without waiting for approval, Bohemond kneeled, resting his armored hands on the hilt of his sword as if it were a holy relic, closing his eyes. Justin exchanged worried glances with the others as the Knight’s voice spoke, deep and resonant.
“O Arion, Lord of Power, guide our steps through the shadows of Thalgar’s Tunnel. Protect our journey through the Everwood and beyond. Illuminate our path, that we may walk with righteousness and smite the darkness that festers in forgotten places. Strengthen our arms so that we may strike with your righteous fury, and grant us the wisdom to discern the true evil that lurks in the depths. And let us not forget the battle of the soul, which every man and woman on Eyrth fights in the shadows of the heart. By your grace, may we emerge victorious, cleansed in the fire of your holy light. For we are your chosen, those who wield the gifts of the Creator, and because of this grace, we will not falter. In your name, we seek the glory that awaits.”
The last word lingered in the air, and Bohemond remained on his knees for a moment longer, his eyes closed, as though awaiting a divine sign. For a man in a hurry, he certainly wasn’t rushing through this ritual. Eldrin gave a subtle shrug, while Lila raised an eyebrow, clearly unsure what to make of the Knight’s fervor. Kargan looked wide-eyed, caught between awe and confusion. It was the most surprise Justin had seen out of the young Orc, and by now, he had certainly seen some things.
When Bohemond finally rose, Justin couldn’t help but wonder if the prayer had triggered some hidden skill or divine blessing. But there was no sudden burst of light, no aura of power surrounding the Knight. Just silence.
“Thank you, Lord Ashcroft,” Justin said, trying to sound respectful. “Shall we proceed?”
Bohemond nodded, his blue eyes shining with fierce conviction. “We shall. In Arion’s name, justice prevails!”
“Hear, hear,” Justin added, casting a quick glance back toward the city, checking for any sign of pursuit.
[Bohemond Ashcroft has joined the Party. You are refreshed by his Steadfast Resolve, reducing the efficacy of Enemies’ Fear Effects.]
The notification appeared in Justin’s mind. The Steadfast Resolve buff wouldn’t do any good with his Top Hat of Mental Clarity, but it would be a boon for the others.
And just like that, Eldrin led them into the gaping maw of Thalgar’s Tunnel.
----------------------------------------
The tunnel stretched before them, a seemingly endless corridor carved from the mountain’s heart, its walls and ceiling meticulously hewn from dark stone. The craftsmanship was impressive, with smooth, uniform surfaces that could accommodate four carts traveling side by side. The ceiling was tall enough not to feel oppressive, twelve to fifteen feet, at a guess. Every few feet, enchanted torches glowed softly along the walls, casting a steady, warm light that banished the deeper shadows but never quite reached the ceiling. The path forged ahead, with only the faintest of inclines or curves, almost imperceptible.
Bohemond cleared his throat, his voice echoing slightly in the stillness. “So, Lord Talemaker. What has brought you so far from the Wildwood to the esteemed City of Windfall?”
Justin’s story only needed to hold up long enough to keep Bohemond satisfied. The Knight was only a temporary ally—at least, that was the plan. But by now, Justin understood plans had a way of unraveling when faced with unexpected complications.
“We are seasoned adventurers,” Justin finally said, keeping his tone casual. “Eldrin, Lila, and I have cleared three Vaults in the last two weeks, while Kargan joined us for the last one. We came to Windfall looking for something more challenging, something with greater rewards. Lord Harrington’s party was a detour, but we thought it would be a good place to make contacts.”
“Three Vaults in two weeks,” Bohemond mused. “Impressive. Arion’s favor must be upon you.”
Justin continued. “That’s why we’re heading to the Everwood. We’re after better gear and treasures. Given our skills, we thought Windfall was the perfect place to prepare.”
Bohemond nodded thoughtfully. “Treasure and fortune, yes. Many adventurers are drawn here for the same reason, even more so because of the Tunnel reopening. But surely there is more to your quest than gold and glory? Seems strange you’d advertise the Vault to so many, which reduces the chance of you claiming its rewards.”
Justin smiled faintly. “There’s always more to any quest, Lord Ashcroft. But some things are better discovered along the way, don’t you think?”
The Knight looked at him strangely, but he didn’t question it. Justin let out a silent breath of relief. They just needed to keep this going a little longer. Bohemond’s only purpose was to be a shield between the Baron’s careful nature and their lives. At some point, Justin had to admit the Baron might throw caution to the wind.
The monotonous journey through the tunnel continued, the steady rhythm of their footsteps the only sound. Every quarter mile, they passed small alcoves where travelers could rest. Occasionally, they encountered traders and their carts heading toward Windfall or travelers making their way through the tunnel, usually in groups of four or more, most armed. Several groups on horseback passed them, one even calling out a challenge.
“You’ll never make it in time on foot!” a rider jeered as they galloped by, laughter echoing in their wake.
Eldrin shook his head as Bohemond’s face reddened in indignation.
“It won’t matter in the end,” Lila said brightly. “They still don’t know where the Vault is.”
Justin allowed himself a small smile. The tunnel had far more traffic than he had expected. It would be impossible for the Baron to ambush them here. At the same time, if nobles from the party were already passing them, the Baron could have easily caught up by now. It was an uncomfortable thought.
Justin absently touched the Amulet of Equilibrium, its steady power fortifying his body. He couldn’t believe that it was finally his, that it was working as intended. And in the end, it hadn’t been the High Priest of Arion who had removed it, but the Baron himself.
Hours passed in near silence, the monotony of the tunnel making it hard to tell how long they’d been walking or how far they had to go. Finally, Bohemond yawned, breaking the quiet.
“I wouldn’t be opposed to taking a rest.”
“No rest,” Eldrin replied curtly.
Bohemond frowned. “Well, we must rest at some point. It’s another three days before we reach the end of the passage.”
“We’ll rest at the Drakendir Gate,” Eldrin said firmly.
Bohemond’s expression darkened. “The Drakendir Gate is dangerous. Creatures of darkness lurk in those depths. Goblins, trolls, and far worse. I’d rather rest at a proper inn.”
“There are inns here?” Justin asked, surprised.
“Aye,” Bohemond replied. “Five of them, spaced every twenty miles. The dwarves built them for travelers, though they’ve since been repurposed by humans. They were reopened as soon as the tunnel was unsealed.”
As if on cue, the first inn appeared in the distance, built into the surrounding stone. Its name, Stonehearth Haven, was engraved in the stone archway above the entrance. The structure was impressive, blending seamlessly with the tunnel walls, its sturdy stonework and reinforced doors giving it the appearance of a fortified gate rather than a simple rest stop.
The sight of the inn was far from tempting, knowing who was behind them. Eldrin pressed on, his pace unwavering. They passed the inn without stopping, much to Bohemond’s dismay.
At last, after what felt like an eternity, they reached a deviation in the tunnel—a side passage that branched off from the main path. A grand gate blocked the entrance, wrought iron bars intricately carved with symbols of ancient dwarven craftsmanship. The gate led down a set of stone stairs into darkness, the faint echo of dripping water hinting at the unseen depths below.
A lone guard with the griffin of Highcliff on his surcoat sat on a wooden chair by the gate, half-asleep. He rose as the party approached, his eyes narrowing in suspicion.
Eldrin stepped forward with confidence. “We seek passage into Drakendir,” he said, producing fifteen silvers.
“It’s five silvers a head,” the guard grumbled.
Eldrin handed over the additional ten silvers, and the guard pocketed the coins without a word. Apparently, this guard had no qualms about his corruption. The vaunted honor of the Windfall Watch apparently didn't exist in the depths of this tunnel. The guard stepped into a small alcove, where a lever was hidden behind reinforced metal plating. With a creak and a groan, the gate lifted about four feet, just high enough for someone to pass through kneeling.
“You’ve got quite the business here,” Justin said.
The guard remained silent, apparently ready for them to get a move on so he could go back to sleep.
“What are you doing?” Bohemond asked, his face pale. “Why are we going down to Drakendir?”
“The Everwood was a diversion,” Eldrin said calmly. “The true Vault is down there.”
Now that they were leaving Thalgar’s Tunnel and entering the isolation of Drakendir, Bohemond could no longer be counted on as protection from the Baron. His death, along with all of theirs, could easily be blamed on the dangers of the ancient dwarven city.
Bohemond’s expression darkened with anger. He turned to Justin, his voice trembling with fury. “You lied to me. Where is your honor, Mr. Talemaker?”
Justin met Bohemond’s gaze, trying to keep his tone measured. “I must admit, honor is not always my strong suit. I feared you’d turn back if I told you the truth earlier. Besides, the ruse was necessary to keep the Vault’s true location secret from others.”
Bohemond’s jaw clenched. “Ah, so you intended to waste my time. A brilliant play indeed!”
While Bohemond’s presence in Drakendir wouldn’t save them from the Baron, Justin realized they couldn’t afford for him to turn back. If he left, he’d surely cross paths with the Baron and reveal they had gone down to Drakendir. Besides, a Level 10 Knight could be invaluable in the dangers that awaited them below.
Justin felt a moment of guilt for involving Bohemond, even if it had been necessary for their survival. The Knight had gotten involved without knowing the full extent of the danger.
Bohemond stood there for a long moment, wrestling with his thoughts. Finally, he spoke, his voice firm but laced with disappointment. “The Church teaches that deception is a sin, but it also teaches forgiveness. I'll go with you, but know this—I do so not for you, but for Arion.”
Justin nodded gratefully. “Thank you, Bohemond. We’ll need your strength in the trials ahead.”
“Get a move on,” the guard said. “You have half a minute before I close the gate.”
Bohemond inclined his head, though the tension in his posture remained. He was the first to duck beneath the gate and enter the passage, much to Justin’s surprise.
The rest followed, and as soon as Justin brought up the rear, the gate shut behind them, locking them in. It was lowered softly, so that the sound wouldn’t echo through the tunnel.
Justin followed, casting one last glance over his shoulder. The path ahead was fraught with danger, and their alliance with Bohemond was tenuous at best.
But with luck, they’d lose the Baron for good in the darkness of Drakendir.