As the day wore on, Seraphina and I discussed our plans to go to Crownforge. She thought her father might want to tag along as well. I hadn’t had a chance to privately talk with Elixander since we had returned. He had indicated he would try to help find a solution for the Heart of Shadows, and Seraphina had previously discussed doing a little research in the capital. It looked like our work was cut out for us.

Jessara and Milo had already packed up the food wagon and headed for the front gate to serve lunch for a few hours. I wished them luck and told them how much I appreciated that they took the daily initiative to keep us in business. It was time for a raise, but I'd figure that out when I returned.

Seraphina needed to finish some work and headed to her shop for a few hours, leaving Triolux and me alone, well, except for some ghosts. Grondak had appeared and then had gone to work in the back under the guidance of Lady Churl. They’d set to work to finish cleaning the leftover mugs from the night before.

Triolux approached me an hour later. He’d been conversing with Lady Ophelia regarding Morthisal’s old kingdom. I tuned them out, preferring to know as little about that as possible.

"Varix," Triolux said at one point. "I would like to meet with the town leader to discuss opening a way to my ancient city."

I paused, considering his proposal. "That's an interesting idea, Triolux. How would that work, and why?"

“I can begin the creation any time. It will take a few days for the pathway to be established. I believe creating an archway for visitors to access the city would be beneficial. It would be manageable and serve as a unique tourist attraction for Everspring and those from the surrounding area.”

I nodded. "I can see scholars coming from far and wide. What about the area around the city, Triolux? What else is out there?”

“The area around the city would be most fascinating. A lot of strange flora and fauna. Creatures that exist only in darkness. There may be threats, but that would require one to venture quite far away from the city.”

“What about your people? Will they be awake by then, and welcoming?”

“Some, most assuredly. I suspect they will be most welcoming indeed. There is much to be learned between the races.”

If he wanted to open a magic portal to his underground city, I was here for it, and I had the perfect idea for the location an entryway.

“And adventurers. They’ll arrive for sure,” Sir Garin added, appearing in the doorway. “Especially if you mention those potential ‘threats.’”

“What a droll life. Chasing adventure. Why go through all that trouble when you can have trouble brought to you? Morthisal was always good at bringing home some special projects for me,” Ophelia said, pushing past him and into the yard. She looked at Triolux. “And it continues.”

“Madame, I am not here for your amusement,” Triolux assured her.

“As you say.” She waved dismissively.

I shook my head at Lady Ophelia.

“Alright. Let's go talk to Roland Hightown. He’s the town steward. If anyone can give the okay on this portal, it will be him. I have to go to Crownforge for a day or two at the most. Can work begin after I'm back?"

“Before or after. None will be able to enter until it is unlocked by me. As I said last night, I would like to go to Crownforge with you. From what I gather, the dwarves seem to be direct descendants of the ferrokin. I very much look forward to meeting them.”

“I’m sure they’re going to have a lot of questions.“

“That they will.”

Triolux and I walked through the village. Word of the ferrokin had spread, and he received many looks. Some of the children raced up, finding him to be a peculiar-looking being and one almost as short as them. Triolux was jovial and had a greeting for anyone who greeted him. They wanted to touch his odd skin, and he allowed it. The children squealed, laughed at his strange, metallic, cold exterior, and raced off.

When we reached Roland's office, he was buried in paperwork, as usual. He looked up as we entered and his eyes widened slightly at the sight of Triolux in tow.

"Ah, Varix and Triolux! What brings you here today?" Roland greeted us warmly and set aside his quill, his eyes roving over my odd companion.

“I wanted to thank you for being a judge at the event last night. It was a hit, and I like the brews you chose.”

“I very much enjoyed them, as well, a bit too much, if you know what I mean.” Roland tapped his head.

“Did you take a restorative?”

“I did, but they’ve long since stopped being entirely effective. Far too many nights of peach ale in my youth.”

I nodded, understanding what he meant. “I hear ya, buddy. Mine got me back to about seventy-five percent. I need to take it easy with those things,” I told him.

Roland turned his eyes to Triolux and said, “We are so honored to have you in our humble village. What can I do for you? We will do what is needed to make your stay as pleasant as possible.”

“Everspring’s warmth and hospitality is second to none, friend Roland. I find myself pondering what it would mean to allow the fine people access to my town. There is much that could be learned. Therefore, I have a proposition for you.”

Triolux went on to describe his plan.

You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

Roland leaned back in his chair, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "That's a fascinating idea, Triolux. I remember being quite impressed by your tales of your city during the event night at The Shadow's Respite. But we would need to consider the logistics and property rights."

This was my opportunity, so I chimed in. "What if we placed the portal at The Shadow's Respite? It would help attract more adventurers and visitors to the tavern and, by extension, to Everspring. I have the perfect spot for it, and Triolux assured me it will take up very little room.”

“Ah, Varix. I know you to be a shrewd businessman. My instinct here is that you have ulterior motives. Not that this is a bad thing.”

“Of course, it would be right next to my tavern and bring in clientele. As you know, I am having issues with the baron…” I trailed off.

“Aye. The baron. Such a petty man." Roland nodded. "I see the appeal."

Trioloux added, "If it does not work out, ‘tis not hard to remove the entryway. Ferrokin engineering is quite unique in that respect."

“I see. I see.” Roland stroked his chin. “But what about the safety of those entering the ground below?”

“I’ve been there. It’s quite a lovely location, but I hadn’t even thought of that,” I admitted.

“I shall bring you there first, of course, Roland. You can judge the location for yourself. And we will discuss safety measures.”

Roland sat back, and his eyes narrowed as he slowly nodded his head.

“You can go with Triolux before anyone else. What do you think, Triolux? Roland can be the second visitor to the city."

“I see. Yes.” Roland smiled at the prospect. “Yes, I would like to look this location over. I thank you for the kind offer.”

Roland was a practical man, but he also enjoyed flattery and admiration from others. Allowing him an exclusive visit to the city with Triolux would go a long way toward getting his blessing.

"You will not be disappointed. Even now, the Earthheart strives to reach its full power. As it awakens, so shall more of my home. You are in for a surprise, Roland. It is a wondrous sight."

I couldn't help but smile at Triolux's words because he was right. I had seen but a fraction of the place, and it had indeed been a wonder.

“I believe that could work. I shall ascertain the safety of this city. As I see it, the entrance could benefit the local economy by providing such a unique draw. And with the portal at your tavern, we could ensure proper oversight and management."

Triolux nodded, a smile playing across his metallic features. "I agree. The Shadow's Respite would be an ideal location for a portal. I will begin the construction, but it will not be ready for a few days, and no one will be able to enter until I have unlocked it. Is that acceptable?"

Roland stood up, extending his hand to Triolux. "Well then, gentlemen, I think we have a plan.”

As I walked with Triolux back towards The Shadow's Respite, I noticed an elderly man named Jed struggling with a loose fence post in front of his home. The man tried hammering the post back into place, but his shaking hands and frail body was making the task difficult.

I turned to Triolux and asked, "Hey, could we make a quick stop? I want to help Jed with his fence."

Triolux nodded. "Of course, Varix. I am always eager to observe the customs and interactions of your world. I shall assist in any way I can."

We approached Jed, who looked up at us with a mix of surprise and relief. "Varix! And who's your unusual friend, here?"

I smiled. "Jed, this is Triolux, a ferrokin from an ancient underground city. Triolux, meet Jed, one of my neighbors."

Jed squinted at Triolux and took in his metallic skin and glinting eyes. "Well, I'll be! Never seen anyone quite like you before, Triolux. Welcome to Everspring."

Triolux inclined his head respectfully. "Thank you, Jed. It is a pleasure to meet you."

I gestured to the loose fence post. "Need a hand with that, Jed?"

The old man chuckled. "If you're offering, I won't say no. These old bones aren't what they used to be."

"Happy to help."

I took Jed's hammer, carefully aligned the post, and struck it with the hammer. It barely moved. When I failed to make much progress, the ferrokin asked for the hammer. "May I?"

"Sure thing," I said and gave him the tool.

He placed his hand on the post and briefly closed his eyes. The ground under the post shimmered for a brief moment. Triolux looped the hammer over and smashed it into the top. The thick piece of wood slid at least six inches into the ground.

"Wow," I said.

Jed clapped. "Thank you, Triolux and Varix. You're good neighbors, always ready to help."

I grinned and pointed at my friend. "Thank him. He did the heavy work."

"Not heavy at all. I simply asked the earth for some help, and it agreed."

I shook my head with respect to his simple solution.

"Varix here is always willing to lend a hand wherever needed," Jed said.

I shrugged, feeling a bit embarrassed by the praise. "It's just the way things are here in Everspring. We take care of our own. Now you think about stopping by the Shadow's Respite the next time you're hungry. I'll let the staff know you get a discount."

"That is very kind of you." Jed smiled.

As we turned to leave, I called back to Jed, "Remember, you're always welcome at my tavern, even if it's just to stop in and chat. My door is open to you anytime."

Jed waved a grateful smile on his face. "I'll keep that in mind, Varix. Thank you again."

Triolux and I continued down the road with the ferrokin observing the village with keen interest. After a moment, he remarked, "I have noticed that there seem to be a significant number of older individuals in Everspring."

I nodded. "A lot of the younger folks didn't survive the war. It's been hard on everyone, but especially the older generation who lost their children, and sometimes grandchildren."

Triolux's metallic features softened with understanding. "I see. It is a tragedy I am all too familiar with. War leaves scars that run deep in the earth and the hearts of those who endure it."

"There is no way to fix the past, but I hope my efforts always brighten someone's day. These are lovely people. They deserve nothing but love and respect."

As we rounded a corner, we nearly collided with a familiar figure—the strange woman in plain clothing who had been at The Shadow's Respite the night before. Triolux's face lit up with recognition, and he greeted her warmly. "Frostfire! What a pleasant surprise to see you here in town."

So Seraphina's and my speculations had been right about her being the dragon in disguise.

Frostfire smiled at us. "Triolux, Varix, hello! I hope I didn't startle you. I've been exploring the village and learning about the life that now flourishes in this world. It's truly fascinating."

I grinned, happy to see her, and tried not to comment on how weird it was that a whole-ass dragon could somehow shapeshift into this woman. "Not at all, Frostfire. It's wonderful to have you here. Actually, I was hoping to run into you. I need to go on a trip to the capital city of Crownforge, and I was wondering if you might be willing to take me and a few others there?"

Triolux said, "I will be joining Varix on this journey as well. It would be an honor to travel with you, Frostfire."

Frostfire clapped her hands once. "Oh lovely. I am more than happy to take you. I shall, of course, have to charge you the standard fee, Varix."

"Oh," I said. "Right. Sorry. Of course. How much is the fee?"

"Just a portion of your heart. I will be very delicate when I remove it." Frostfire grinned.

"Pardon?"

Triolux's mouth dropped open.

Frostfire laughed and turned away because a slight burst of ice shot out of her mouth. After she recovered, she turned back to me. "A jest, Varix. Was it a good one?"

"You scared me for a moment there, Frostire." I laughed, a trifle shakily.

"I very much enjoyed the tales from the bard, Kieran. I was inspired. I would be more than happy to take you! I've been eager to learn more about the larger cities of this realm. It will be a grand adventure for us all."

As Frostfire’s laughter echoed through the street, I couldn’t help but think that traveling with a dragon who fancied herself a stand-up comedian would either be incredibly fun or utterly terrifying—possibly both.