9th of Dayhelm, 1372

In the deep bosom of the earth, where light dared not stray, the industrious folk formerly hailing from Gorgandale had hewn a thriving mining community from the stone. Deep Miners, they called themselves, not without pride, as if claiming kinship to the rock around them. With their brawny hands and bulky pickaxes, they gouged at the granite wall as if scratching a back long overdue for relief.

Shreds and slivers of stone flew aside with each blow, adding to the symphony of earthy drumming that reverberated through the cavernous space. Their robust bodies sweltered within their grimy leather vests and aprons, and their soot-stained skin glistened under the subdued glow of the small light crystals embedded in the surrounding rocks.

Ebonheim followed Brevin and Lilin down a side passage lit by dimmer light crystals. The two had been explaining their progress since last year. Over the winter, they had discovered a vast and relatively stable vein of gold far within the mountainside. Lilin wanted to begin harvesting this mineral soon with the new tunnels they were digging.

Brevin, however, remained uncertain about the stability. Both had come to a head two weeks ago...and asked their goddess to oversee and determine the proper course of action for themselves.

"The truth is...I'm starting to get worried," Brevin confessed after a lull in the conversation. "The area Lilin and I fought over yesterday...well... I've discovered evidence suggesting we're working dangerously close to an ancient section of tunnel—perhaps a hidden path into the Underrealm."

"The Underrealm?" Ebonheim asked. The name was unfamiliar to her, but it didn't sound terribly inviting. "What's this place?"

Brevin hummed low in his throat. "The Underrealm..." he repeated. "Hmm...how to explain? It's basically a world beneath our own—a place where all sorts of dark creatures reside. Think of underground caverns as enormous as cities above. Only...all you'd find inside such places are all manner of fiends and monsters."

Ebonheim frowned. "Sounds dangerous. Why haven't I heard about this place before...?"

"In fairness, you rarely leave Ebonheim...and many folk don't care or wish to acknowledge the Underrealm," Brevin admitted with a sheepish laugh. "But every now and again adventurers or lost travelers stumble upon passages leading into them. There are few access points available to regular people and even fewer who actually seek them out. Still, however..." His expression turned more somber. "Some creatures might eventually break free and rise onto the surface...gods help anyone in their path once they do..."

Ebonheim remained silent for several moments as she pondered his words. Finally, she posed her question. "Our outpost is fairly deep already. Could something have passed through our current mines unnoticed?"

"It's unlikely," Lilin answered instead. She shook her head in emphasis. "We haven't ventured anywhere near these rumored 'entrances,' as the chief puts them. These mines rarely dip deeper than half a kilometer underground. According to Chief Brevin's estimates...we'd need to descend roughly twice our usual distance to risk discovering such a connection with our current equipment."

Brevin scratched the back of his neck. "Yes...but if we continue expanding the network downward...eventually we'll stumble into those places. And I'm not sure how I feel about intentionally burrowing closer towards them. That'd make all sorts of nasty things trickle toward Ebonheim's outskirts, if they did come out at all."

The three arrived at an open chamber within the outpost's deepest area. Large piles of broken and discarded rocks littered the corners. Near the chamber's center lay a small pool where murky water glistened eerily beneath the glow of several larger light crystals.

"This was the end of the passage we explored when I discovered traces of that ancient path." Brevin stopped near the edge of the pool and crouched before pointing to a section of rock on the other side. "See how the wall curves sharply just behind the water? That's part of a natural tunnel formed ages ago. Probably carved by an underground river flowing past this place. The light crystals we planted inside can reveal everything...if you peer closely enough."

"Are there any signs?" Ebonheim asked as she peered closer. Her eyes narrowed in concentration.

"Not quite. Look here—" Brevin placed his palm flat against a specific spot along the curved wall, then gently pushed upward. A faint scraping noise echoed throughout the room as the stone shifted to expose a hidden gap beneath. It extended downward for several paces before disappearing from sight entirely. "This might lead to somewhere farther below...and further away from our usual routes."

"Hmm..." Ebonheim's voice trailed off as she examined the narrow crack.

It certainly looked suspicious. Even without Brevin's warning about its possible connection to the Underrealm, Ebonheim's gut instinct told her not to trifle with whatever lay beyond this passage. Who knew what kind of monstrosity might crawl up here given enough time? Yet curiosity also nagged at her mind like an itch she couldn't scratch.

"Well...what're our options regarding this discovery, you two? Do we block it off or investigate its depths...?" Ebonheim questioned while looking at her two followers.

The other two remained quiet as they exchanged meaningful glances.

Eventually, Lilin cleared her throat. "If you ask my opinion...I believe this requires investigation," she stated firmly. Then she turned toward Brevin expectantly. "Chief...your thoughts...?"

"I agree," he responded after a moment's hesitation. He tilted his head downwards and let out a deep sigh. When he finally raised his gaze to meet Ebonheim's once more, his eyes shone with steely resolve. "Lilin and I already spoke at length prior about this...and we decided. This is an important matter—whether for good or ill remains to be seen. Regardless, I can't risk having us mining this entire complex without knowing exactly what lurks beneath us."

Ebonheim nodded. "In that case, I'll join the exploration team myself. Once we figure out what's going on in this area, we'll make our plans accordingly." She offered both a confident smile. "We won't rush things and remain careful. Who knows...perhaps we'll stumble upon something useful. If the tunnel ends in a dead end...we'll consider collapsing the passage to discourage anything from using it in the future."

Lilin grinned widely in response. "Then we should decide on a date and gather people and equipment together—soon. No sense wasting time, ma'am!"

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Out of the group gathered in the town hall, only Evelyne, Serelle, and Orin raised their hands to join the expedition into the new tunnels. The rest either preferred to stay put or declined for various reasons.

"Eh? None of you are coming...?" Ebonheim blinked. "B-but...I expected more people to sign on to this particular outing. We need a lot of extra muscle for hauling all the necessary gear and supplies."

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Bjorn cleared his throat and looked away sheepishly. "I-er, my wife asked me to stick around this time...since we recently had a wee one last winter."

Roderick sighed and stared out the window nearby. "Well...y'see, Ebonheim. The thing is...me an' the missus kinda hit a rocky patch lately. She told me she wouldn't mind if I went out again so soon, but ah...I reckon I oughtta do right by her and stay home for once. At least till our quarrel gets sorted."

Ingrid shook her head solemnly. "Apologies. Unfortunately I must decline your generous invitation due to previous obligations I must fulfill first. I hope you understand, dear goddess."

Ebonheim turned to Thorsten expectantly, who quickly gave a nervous laugh and rubbed the back of his head. "Me? Ahaha...not this time I'm afraid! See...uhhhh...my...axe! Yes, my axe snapped last week during sparring practice. It's still getting repaired. And I'd feel bloody useless without my weapon! Right...?"

Ebonheim couldn't help but quirk an eyebrow at her followers' myriad excuses. "You're all awfully quick to reject my invitation today," she pointed out with a wry grin. "But alright. I guess it's just me and you three then. We'll head out in two days' time. Gather your own supplies beforehand. Brevin and Lilin will provide the necessary equipment once we arrive at the outpost."

She dismissed everyone else afterward. Once everyone filed out, however, she couldn't suppress the urge to heave a heavy sigh.

"I can't help but think those excuses sounded a bit...fishy. Don't you?" Ebonheim asked aloud.

Kelzryn remained quiet for several seconds before answering. "They might not like venturing underground. Some people develop a natural aversion towards cramped spaces."

"I don't blame them," Ebonheim said with a soft chuckle. "Still...I didn't expect them to avoid joining in. At least Serelle, Orin, and Evelyne chose to accompany me. That'll suffice for this outing. I'd rather avoid overwhelming our miners with too many newcomers in one go..."

Kelzryn merely nodded in agreement before following after her.

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Ebonheim found herself gazing at her reflection in a large hand mirror. She wore her hair tied back in a neat braid; her usual white dress replaced with a practical set of clothes: leather boots and a sturdy brown shirt paired with comfortable black pants. Over everything, she donned a thick cloak made from thick wool.

The whole outfit gave her a more casual appearance than her usual attire—perfect for this expedition into the unknown depths below ground. She set the mirror aside on her bed with a soft sigh before glancing around her cabin one final time to ensure she hadn't forgotten anything essential for the coming days' activities.

A knock came upon her door. "Ma déesse~! Are you ready yet? Everyone else has gathered at the town square already! We're waiting on your orders~" Evelyne called from outside.

"Yes,yes, I'm almost done," Ebonheim replied. "Come in if you want. I'm finishing up my preparations now."

She turned back toward her nightstand as footsteps approached from behind. A moment passed before Ebonheim felt gentle hands brush against her shoulders.

Turning slightly to meet Evelyne's gaze, Ebonheim gave a reassuring smile. "I didn't expect you to volunteer. You hate small spaces. And don't like dirt...or grime...or anything remotely filthy. You sure you want to tag along?"

"Mon plaisir! You'll find me eager to lend my aid whenever possible~" Evelyne chimed. She leaned forward till their noses touched and grinned widely. "Especially when our goddess takes the lead herself. How can I refuse your call for support? Especially since this'll let me keep an eye on you. And perhaps other things too~"

Ebonheim's cheeks flushed slightly. "Ahaha...you're always so forward..." She gently pushed away Evelyne's arms around her. "Thank you. Truly. Having your assistance is greatly appreciated."

After gathering her belongings together in her knapsack, Ebonheim slung the pack over her shoulder and strode out from her home with Evelyne trailing after her. They found the rest of their party waiting by the fountain in the central square.

Orin and Serelle chatted amiably as they examined a set of tools and gadgets.

Next to them was...an egg-shaped Aetherframe supported by two stumpy legs. One arm protruded from either side of the mech—each ending in a clawlike manipulator. Several tubes and cables ran between its various components to connect them all together. A pair of thick panels sat atop its main body like an oversized lid.

It reminded her somewhat of a potbellied stove. Or perhaps more aptly—a walking mechanical barrel.

She glanced at Evelyne. "What's this for...?"

"Oh! This?" Evelyne said proudly. "I built a modified version of an Aetherframe for this occasion. It's designed to haul cargo and perform basic labor in enclosed spaces. We're going into cramped tunnels. We can't fit a full-size Aetherframe into them, so I came up with this solution."

She patted the machine fondly on its metal carapace. "I call this model 'Orby'. A compact but robust unit perfect for mining and carrying supplies through narrow passageways~"

Ebonheim stared at her blankly for a few seconds before shaking her head with an amused grin. "Sometimes I'm not sure what to think of your creations. But if it proves useful...that's good enough for me. But, um, wouldn't it be a bit...tight for you in there?"

Her eyes roved over Orby's bulk doubtfully.

Unlike the other Aetherframes, this one was only twice the size of an average human. It looked more like an oversized metal keg on legs than anything else.

"Non! The cockpit fits snugly around me~" Evelyne purred. She then placed her hands against either side of the chassis' panels. "And getting in and out is a cinch. Observe!" With a quick motion she lifted open the top like opening a pot's lid and climbed in.

There came the sound of rustling and grunting as she struggled to settle herself inside the machine. Her muffled voice echoed from within. "Merde! A little snugger than usual...but not unbearable~"

Ebonheim giggled softly. "Are you sure? Seems quite tight from here..."

"N-non...! Just need to...readjust...a bit..." More shifting and wriggling followed before Evelyne's strained voice spoke again. "There...we...go~ Ahhhh~! Perfect~! Nice and comfy now~"

Then Orby stirred; its legs shuddered for a moment before steadying itself once again. The two arms flexed experimentally before giving a thumbs-up pose.

Ebonheim approached the front of the mech, noting the small window where Evelyne could peer out from inside. "So...how's your field of vision in there? Anything obstructing your sight? Will you manage to see well enough while moving around in this thing?"

Evelyne chuckled. "Ma déesse...you worry too much! I installed several viewports all across the hull. My sight should be more than adequate for navigating those tunnels. No need for concern~!"

"If you say so," Ebonheim relented. She stepped away from Orby and headed towards the others.

Orin greeted her with an easy smile. He wore a set of simple clothes—a white shirt beneath a gray leather vest and black pants tucked into leather boots. A large satchel hung off his shoulder by a strap.

"If we ever experience any cave-ins, we can place the blame on Evelyne and her toy here," Orin quipped wryly. He tapped his artificial right arm against Orby's leg. "She claims this bucket can support itself even when buried beneath tons of rock. But I doubt her boasts."

Evelyne scoffed from within her Aetherframe. "How rude! I designed Orby with utmost care! It's as durable as any full-size Aetherframe! If anything, I'm more concerned about your own safety during this expedition, Orin. You're scrawny enough as is..."

"Hey! My physical fitness has improved greatly since coming here!" Orin shot back. "You're one to talk anyway! I bet you haven't stepped foot outdoors for days! You're probably as frail as parchment! No stamina to speak of!"

The Aetherframe stamped angrily at that remark. "Moi?! I'll show you who lacks stamina!" Orby lurched forward clumsily and swung both arms at Orin in a mock boxing pose. "Come here and let me demonstrate how tough I am~!"

Serelle interrupted their bickering with a polite cough. "Please...not here in the square. At least wait until we're away from the crowd to begin your childish spats. I don't want anyone injured due to your carelessness."

She wore her usual green dress along with her white overcoat and white hooded cloak. In one hand she carried her staff; the other held a large book tucked beneath her arm. She nodded to Ebonheim as she approached. "Hello, Ebonheim. Are you ready to depart? I assume all preparations have been completed. We just await your order to proceed."

Ebonheim smiled and nodded back. "Yes, I'm set. I believe everyone else should be too. Let's head out. Lilin and Brevin are expecting us at the outpost later today. And we mustn't keep them waiting too long."