“I think she is missing because we have reason to believe that the Sybil we see today isn’t who she says she is.” The words hung in the air, heavy with implication. Tracker’s entire demeanor shifted, surprise etched across his rugged features, and I felt a knot of nerves twist in my stomach. It was a bold accusation, one that could easily paint me as irrational. After all, Sybil walked and breathed, yet something deep inside me whispered that the essence of her was lost.
“Are you sure, Princess?” he asked, tilting his head slightly, his eyes narrowing as if he were trying to peer through the veil of my certainty. I could see the skepticism written all over his face, and I knew he had every right to doubt me.
“I’m positive,” I replied, forcing confidence into my tone. “Even the Captain believes me.” I crossed my arms.
"So the Captain believes this tale?" The Tracker asked me as I could tell that he was certain I was loosing my mind. Hell, sometimes I wondered that myself, however, this I knew was the truth.
"Yes, in fact he is utilizing a spell now to gather more information as we speak." I told him as I tuned into Théoden's mind for a short bit of time. Just enough to pick up some of the information to give to Tracker.
Tracker straightened, the weight of my words settling on him. “Alright, what information do you have?” He arched his eyebrow as he questioned me. I could tell he still did not believe me for the most part. I mean why would he? Sybil was literally walking around and being apart of the Council. That was the beauty of shifting magic's... the naked eye could not reveal such truths.
I took a breath, steadying myself as I found the right words to say to him. “He has found some leads suggesting that she may be near Pharo Creek, but there’s something about… the wetness of the area.” I said as I was confused with the tidbits of information that Sybil was giving Theo. They seemed very sparce and very little to go off of. I just only hoped that once they got to the Creek's entrance to the underground, a place that was rumored to exist but traveled very little due to it's unsettled nature, they will find her.
“Hmm…” He scratched his bearded chin, a thoughtful expression creeping into his eyes. A spark of doubt danced across his face but to my surprise, he nodded, “There’s a cave system underneath Pharo Creek. It’s usually damp down there, but it can be unstable in spots.” He said confirming the underground entrance near the Creek.
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“What do you advise?” I asked, the urgency of the situation making my heart race. I hated the thought of sending Théoden in alone and he get trapped in the under dark.
“Me and three of my men can go in and explore,” Tracker said, his voice steady and sure. “We’re experienced in these kinds of scenarios and know how to handle potential collapses.” HIs voice was confident as he spoke. I knew the Tracker had experience in cave diving, experience in traveling through the under dark, which was one of the reasons why Théoden wanted me to find him for this mission.
I nodded, weighing my options. “One moment.” I wanted to check in with Théoden, give him a brief update as to what Tracker had informed me.
In my mind, I reached out to Théoden. I think they should go. You can be on standby, but I’d rather not risk it.
I felt his sigh reverberate through the bond. Fair enough. I’ll be near the entrance of the cave system and utilize scrying to keep an eye on them.
Of course. I nodded slightly as I agreed with Theo.
“Okay,” I said, turning back my attention to Tracker. “Here’s the deal: you and three of your men go and explore under Pharo Creek. Théoden will be your source of contact and will watch through spells such as scrying or dream or locate creature."
“Can we refuse the spell?” Tracker asked, his brows furrowing slightly. He didn't seem to pleased to be watched through a spell. I just hoped he would under stand the reasons for it.
“No. If a spell failed, that would give him an indication that something could have happened to you. Which would in turn will make Theo search for you." I explained, knowing the risks all too well.
Tracker nodded, accepting the terms. “How soon do you want us to start?”
“Today. This is urgent.” I told him with firmness in my voice.
“Alright. Give me an hour, and we’ll meet Théoden at Pharo’s Creek.” Tracker began to collect a few things from his booth that he had sat out. Paper, a few rocks, and a bag he had placed behind him. Once he gather his items he turned back to me before disappearing, "I'll have my best with me. You can count on that. I won't let you down." He sounded confident. I just hope he was right.
“Thank you.” I smiled softly, grateful for his willingness to help. “One more thing… I want this to stay as quiet as possible until we have confirmation. Understood?” I really didn't want word flying around the kingdom that there was a potential imposter on the lose or better yet that one of the Council members could be dead.
“Yes, Princess.” His voice was firm, a promise etched in his tone. I nodded as I believed he would keep our deal and keep our secret.
With that, I left the Guild Hall and headed back to the castle where I hoped to watch Théoden and Tracker's crew.