I met Tracker next to one of the older dark oak trees. It’s trunk was gnarled and weathered, was a tapestry of deep browns and grays, telling stories of centuries past. The bark was thick and ridged, with deep furrows that spiraled upward, giving it an ancient, wise appearance. The tree itself stood well over hundred feet tall and was draped with plentiful green leaves that hung over the winding creek.
Within the tree itself was the entrance to the Underdark cave system where we believed that Sybil’s body was now located, at least we believed it to be located. If it was up to me, I would have been the one traveling through the Underdark, but I understood Maria's concerns and with everything that has been going on, I didn't blame her for not wanting me to go into the Underdark.
“Théoden.” Tracker said giving my a nod of acknowledgment as he approached. He offered his hand to which I took.
“Tracker, I’d say it’s nice to see you again but considering the circumstances…” I shook my head as I recalled why I was meeting with him again. At least the last time I met him was on more friendlier terms and not for business. I thought I as I recalled how the last time I met up with Tracker was at one of the local taverns as he requested to meet me for a round of drinks. Then he wanted to catch up as things had been slow for him business wise.
“The Princess was very admit in her claim. Even dragging you into it.” He seemed amused by the situation. Which, I knew that he wasn’t so keen on believing us.
“Her claim is true. I spoke with Sybil’s spirit. It’s why she knew where to send you.” I said hoping that he would believe it from me. Which, I knew it was a long shot but I had hoped that including the mention of her spirit would push that drive forward.
“Her spirit?” He questioned confusingly… then it hit him as his expression shifted from amusement to realization. “If she is dead then who is parading around in her skin?” His voice was quick in changing tones as he knew then we were being honest.
“That Tracker, I can not tell you as it is under investigation.” I informed him as I hoped he would understand and not question further.
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He nodded but I could tell he wanted to question it further. “So you expect me to take my three men down in the under dark and not have all the details?”
“Yes.” I said with authority hoping that he would understand that I can not reveal sensitive information to him.
Tracker looked back to the three men. All three I knew. One was a human that was known for his utility abilities. Another was a gnome that was good at getting through tough areas. And the other was another wolf like creature that mimicked Tracker’s abilities. “Alright… we have no choice since we already agreed to this. But this just seems sketchy Théoden.”
“I understand it does Tracker, but we got you for this mission for a reason.”
He nodded. “Thank you for trusting me in this.”
“Of course. Are you ready?”
Tracker nodded, “Yes. We have come ready and willing to dive into the under dark.”
The portal to the Underdark was one that needed to be cast, or rather, recreated. This wasn’t just any ordinary passage; it was a permanent gateway bound to the ancient oak tree that stood sentinel by the winding creek. Yet, access to its shadowy depths required a specific incantation—a Planar Travel spell that I was fortunate enough to possess.
As I began to chant the spell, the air around the tree grew heavy with anticipation. Tendrils of energy spiraled from my fingertips, wrapping around the trunk like a silken thread, as if weaving magic into the very fabric of the tree. Slowly, a darkened, gnarled door materialized on the tree’s surface, seemingly carved from the oak itself. The door appeared to be alive, formed of withering vines that coiled tightly around the wood, their edges frayed and curling as if they had long been dormant.
As Tracker and his group approached, a palpable tension filled the air. The moment they stepped closer, the vines began to loosen, almost as if they sensed their presence. The once dull and lifeless foliage shimmered, transforming into a striking metallic green that caught the light in mesmerizing patterns. The transformation was both beautiful and eerie, a stark contrast to the shadowy world that awaited them beyond the door.
I quickly sent him one message as he vanished beyond the spell, “Be on guard and remember I will be watching you.”
“Understood.” Tracker simply said in response as the sound of his footsteps echoed through the spell before the spell ended.