Shonda fell like a stone. Her heart raced and her anxiety increased as she was plunged into obscure darkness. She was in hardcore mode. If she died now, her character would be permanently erased from the game. She had come too far to let that happen. As long as she was jacked into the game, no one could harm her. Shonda loathed going back to her miserable life. Her daughter had made life tolerable, but she would be taken away once they found Chuck. A branch knocked the wind out of her and jolted her out of her thoughts.

That was too close!

She cast the flight spell as she bounced off the branch. A massive feather formed under her feet. She dodged other obstacles as she descended. Navigation was a challenge in the dark and she took in a magnificent view of never ending twilight.

I’m in Darkow, or on the edge of it.

Shonda braced herself and the feather came in for a landing. The sound of cheering echoed.

That’s coming from the pit of darkness. I’d better see what’s going on.

As she headed in the direction of the pit, an uneasy feeling of dread overcame her. It was much worse than being watched. It was like the weather had some insight into her soul.

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“Un-Por-Vet.”

A portal opened. She could see her home base. It was closer to the pit and she would stock up on supplies. She wanted to be ready for anything. As she entered the portal, a stinging sensation coursed through her body. Two cloaked intruders stood in her private sanctuary. One of the figures held out their arms as if casting a spell. She was pulled through the portal and collapsed at the feet of her uninvited guests.

“You have failed to deliver us, JetaGirl,” a man’s voice said.

Lord Aldoor!

“I wasn’t expecting you so soon. You have to give me more time.”

“It’s been a fortnight since last we spoke. Long enough to find JetaGirl.”

“What? It’s only been a few moments since I saw you.”

“Are you accusing your lord of deception?” Queen Amerdelle asked.

“No!”

“You don’t seem very motivated to claim your rightful title. Perhaps JetaGirl is more worthy.”

“That won’t be necessary. Give me another chance to prove myself, Lord Aldoor.”

Shonda hated bowing to anyone, but Lord Aldoor was as imposing as he was powerful.

“I will give you one more chance. We will lure JetaGirl into a trap. Once contained, you will interrogate her for the location of Icarius.”

“Who?”

“The dungeon master.”

“And she knows?”

“She is the dungeon master’s chosen. If she ascends, we might as well be dead.”

Shonda was impressed. She never heard of any player becoming the dungeon master’s chosen. There wasn’t a quest that involved replacing the dungeon master.

JetaGirl must have unlocked some special Easter egg. She must not succeed.

“What must I do?”

“She is ascending the Pit of Darkness as we speak. She has not fully regained her powers, but I fear it won’t be long before she does. When she emerges, strike her down, but don’t end her until she gives you the location of Icarius.”