Totes's Solo Adventure

Ravik is in no shape to fight, and has no time to set up traps or diversions. It's time to flee, as fast and far as he's able.

He rushes to the north, gritting in pain from his wounds. There's a commotion behind him as the warband finds the dead Varou. Alva's voice roars again in a challenge, spurring Ravik on even more.

"This way!"

Ravik jerks his head in the direction of the voice. He's stunned to see a person running in the same direction, not more than 20 yards away. A male elf!

"I'm not your enemy! Trust me!"

Ravik's instincts tell him the elf is being truthful, but it's not like Ravik has much of a choice. The warband is gaining....

He follows the swift elf, who zigs and zags through the woods. Finally, they reach a cave opening in a small hill. The elf plunges inside, and Ravik follows.

The elf quickly lights a small torch, and they move through the natural earthen cave, hopping over rocks and mounds of dirt. The cave has many paths, but Ravik, tired and hurt as he is, still keeps track of their twists and turns. The elf moves confidently, clearly knowing his destination.

The path they're on suddenly ends, and a dark chasm yawns before them. Ravik can hear the rush of water below. The elf steps into the abyss; peering over the edge, Ravik sees he's landed on a ledge about ten feet below. He jumps down after the elf, the pain from the landing nearly causing him to pass out.

They move carefully along the ledge for a few feet, then reach an opening. A few more twists and turns, and the elf finally stops inside a small cavern, about 20 feet by 20 feet. Ravik sees supplies, a bedroll, even a few leather-bound books. The elf's hideaway, no doubt.

The elf sets the torch in a slot in the wall, then lights another to further illuminate the room.

Elf: "You may relax and tend to your wounds. It's unlikely they'll find us. If they do, we can easily escape. Nobody knows these caverns better than me."

Ravik slumps against a wall, but doesn't immediately tend his wounds. Instead, he stares at the elf.

Thin and long-limbed, but obviously hardy; he's barely panting from their sprint. A perceptive expression...but also a touch of sorrow and doubt. Smooth skin and close-cropped silver hair. If he has been camping in this cavern long-term, he doesn't seem affected by the hardship.

Ravik: "I suppose...thanks are in order. But I'd like to...know who I'm dealing with...first...before patching myself up."

Elf: "Understandable, I suppose, even though you're barely clinging to consciousness. I'm Ereshki. I'm Alva's enemy, same as you. Now please, tend to yourself. I have some skill as a healer, but I doubt you yet trust me to poke and prod your wounds. But I do have a poultice that will help you greatly."

He carries a medium-sized ceramic jar over to Ravik and sets it down on the floor.

Ereshki: "It contains something my people call Elana's Embrace. Unfortunately, I cannot tell you the origin of its name, or its ingredients. But its healing ability is potent."

Ravik opens the jar. Inside is a chunky dark-green paste that smells of the forest after a rainshower.

If the elf wanted to slay me, he could do so without such an elaborate setup. I'll trust this is truly a poultice....

First, Ravik gulps down water from his waterskin, then dribbles some over his body to cool himself down.

Next he gingerly removes his armor and shirt. His stomach-wound is as dreadful as expected; even Ereshki grimaces upon seeing it.

Ravik dips his fingers into the jar and begins plugging the wound with the poultice. Almost immediately, his pain lessens, and his mind calms. Too much calming, actually, for Ravik's tastes; he feels sleep pulling him down.

He stands up and paces around the cavern to keep himself awake. But sleep-inducing or not, Elana's Embrace is just as potent as the elf claimed.

Ravik: "I thank you again. It seems I owe you at least one debt. My name is Ravik Vett, sworn to destroy Alva and disperse her followers."

Ereshki: "An Ironsworn? I expected as much. But you've sworn to destroy Alva? Are you by yourself?"

Ravik: "Yes."

Ereshki lets out a musical chuckle: "Then you're foolish...or perhaps you possess some great power you haven't yet unveiled."

Ravik: "And you? You're also alone, I believe. Aren't our goals the same?"

Ereshki: "Yes, I would rejoice if Alva was destroyed. But I've taken no vows."

Ravik: "Then what's your purpose here? And what do the other Firstborn think of this situation?"

The elf's face clouds, and he's a long time in answering.

Ereshki: "My brethren have...many opinions. Some want to destroy her, as we do. Others see her as a tool, to be used to drive off you humans. Others have no opinion, and float this way and that, like leaves on a breeze."

Ravik: "A tool? Yes...the elves have long wanted us Ironlanders gone. But since you haven't slain me or turned me over to Alva, I take it you disagree."

Ereshki: "Reclaiming these lands is a foolish dream. In fact, we never owned these lands to begin with. There have always been beasts, horrors, and other Firstborn to contend with. And you Ironlanders aren't the first humans to settle here. There have been other civilizations, now lost, but still remembered by scholars."

Ravik: "An enlightened elf. It's...certainly refreshing. My previous experiences with your people have left me...leery. But back to you, specifically: why are you here?"

Ereshki: "And my previous experiences with your people have left me dumbfounded. So small-minded, so...but enough. You want my goal: I came here to observe."

Ravik: "That's it? Just watch?"

Ereshki: "What else can a lone person do? You yourself tried a gambit, and nearly failed. If I also hadn't been trailing Alva's warband, where would you be now?"

Ravik: "Observation without action is pointless."

Ereshki: "Hard words...but true. Let me be clear: my goal is to gather information, then relay it to others. Others who are more...martially inclined than me. I'm a decent enough fighter, but I'm no legendary warrior...and a powerful warrior of renown is needed to defeat Alva."

Ravik: "You overestimate the wight. Fearsome and strong? Yes. Plenty of followers? Also yes. But I don't plan to give her a fair fight. I strike from the shadows. Whittle down my foes. Use misdirection and manipulation. A thousand papercuts are just as damaging as a heavy strike from a longsword. Relay this information to me, and let's end this terror."

Again the elf chuckles: "You are certainly determined...and not even healed from your last misadventure! Suppose you make a mistake like that again? Am I supposed to save you, over and over?"

Ravik: "Why not? Or are you content to simply observe? But yes, I made a mistake. I'm not infallible. However, a Varou named Dreko lies dead by my hand, and we've apparently escaped for the time being. That will cause disquiet."

Ereshki arches an eyebrow: "So you actually killed Dreko? I couldn't really see. You are quite capable, then. Very well. Let's each tell our tales, and plan our next steps."

Ravik: "Before we begin, how safe are these caves?"

Ereshki: "Safer than topside. Occasionally Alva's minions venture in, but there is nothing here to interest them."

Ravik: "Are you certain? They haven't mapped these caverns, at least?"

Ereshki: "If they have attempted that, it won't give them an advantage. There are too many passageways, too many crawlspaces, too many possibilities. If they happen to get near, we can lead them on a merry chase, and pop out to the surface at any number of places."

Ravik: "What about beasts or creatures? And how deep do these passages go?"

Ereshki: "There are always dangers lurking in caves like these. But they can be avoided easily enough. I have my own tricks, just as you have yours. As for how deep they go: deep enough, I suppose. But as for lost treasure or secrets, I've found little of note. Some old stonework down below that perhaps belonged to a tomb. Some skeletons from previous adventurers. That's about it."

Ravik: "I see. I'd still like to explore myself, but I'll defer to your judgement for now. How long have you been here, anyway?"

Ereshki: "About two weeks. Since then, I've spent long days and nights studying Alva and her followers, the surrounding area, and this cave."

He then gives a lengthy description of what he's seen. Alva had about 30 followers, but only about half were at the barrow at any given time. The rest were out terrorizing the Ironlands. Ereshki gives details about guard patrols, rotations, even the personalities of individuals. Occasionally he draws on the dirt floor with his dagger to illustrate something.

Ravik: "And Dreko, the Varou?"

Ereshki: "He only arrived last week, from a clan called Darkclaw. It seems Dreko's people are interested in discussing terms with Alva. If not an alliance, a non-aggression pact. I'm dubious. Neither Alva nor Dreko seemed particularly intent on finalizing an agreement. I believe both sides were merely learning as much as they could about the other."

Ravik: "Indeed. There's a thin line between diplomacy and spycraft. How do you think Dreko's death alters the situation?"

Ereshki: "I doubt Alva will be sorrowful...but her pride has definitely taken a hit. And if Dreko's clan finds out he's dead, will they blame Alva?"

Ravik: "They may, if someone told them an...embellished tale. But the Varou can also be unpredictable. What about Alva herself? Have you been able to gauge her power?"

Ereshki: "She would be a formidable foe. Her presence alone is enough to make lesser men quail. It appears she also has some control over the undead. And it's difficult to determine what occurs in the barrow. I've heard whispers of dark rituals...sacrifices...evil in general. Is she empowering herself further? Almost certainly."

Ravik: "Then we must destroy her, before she becomes too powerful. What of the cart that arrived last night? I was nearby when it got here. The driver was a man named Fyodor, traveling with possibly his son. But he was stopped by the white-cloaks. They had an argument. Alva has tightened the watch, apparently, and everyone gets stopped and searched. Fyodor took offense."

Ereshki: "You heard all this? You are indeed a sneaky one. I haven't seen or heard of this Fyodor until now. Nor do I know what the cart contained. Something to make our lives more difficult, surely. But now tell me of yourself. You have been quite active, haven't you?"

Ravik now details his own actions since arriving. He tells nothing of his backstory with the Black Echo, Wythe, and the orphans. Ereshki asks some probing questions, but Ravik deflects them. This doesn't seem to bother the elf; in fact, he shakes his head and chuckles every time Ravik does so.

Ereshki: "There's certainly more to your story that that, Ravik Vett, but I understand your reluctance in telling it. I'm not so naive to think all Ironsworn are pure as spring water. Anyway, we've both learned much from each other, and you have your vow to complete. Do you have a plan?"

Ravik: "More than one. Never put your eggs in one basket. But let's take a break for now. We both need to digest what we've heard...and I, admittedly, am still not in top shape."

Ereshki: "Fair enough. I have plenty of food and water. Take what you want. I'll keep watch while you rest."

Ravik drinks refreshing sprint water from one of Ereshki's jugs, and eats some sweet bread that the elf calls whispercake. While he partakes, Ereshki ventures out to investigate a few times.

After an hour or so, Ravik feels fortified. Not quite back to full strength, but enough to restart his mission. The poultice continues to work wonders; all he can feel is a slight soreness.

Ereshki re-enters the cavern from one of his patrols, and smiles when he sees Ravik sharpening a dagger.

Ereshki: "Ready for more action, I take it?"

Ravik: "I am. What have you learned from your forays out?"

Ereshki: "I haven't seen anyone, but I've heard far-off noises...once, even a snatch of conversation. But whether this is a hunt in earnest, or just a token exploration by our enemies, remains to be seen."

Ravik: "It's in earnest. Alva didn't earn her position by ignoring blatant attacks. And remember: wights are known for their single-mindedness."

Ereshki: "Shall we venture out, then? Perhaps some white-cloaks can be waylaid and...convinced to give us information."

Ravik: "Or perhaps we can destroy Alva herself...though I doubt it. She'll probably be doubly cautious now. Anyway, we'll just have to see what we can see...."

Ereshki: "Follow me. I have a route in mind that I believe will lead us to some of our hunters."

Ravik follows the elf out of the cavern, through a passage that slopes up. The passage then apparently dead-ends, but Ereshki points to stone points in the wall that serve as hand- and foot-holds. He climbs up, reaches the ceiling, and slips through a narrow opening. Ravik does the same.

Ereshki now extinguishes his torch, and darkness falls...but then Ravik's eyes adjust and pick up light. They're in a crawlspace splotched with glowing lichen. They continue forward at a slow crawl.

Ravik begins to sweat, and wonders how long this will last. He's not claustrophobic, but neither does he like being virtually defenseless in a narrow space. Just when he's about to whisper to Ereshki, he hears a noise. Both he and Ereshki stop and listen. Again, they both hear it: unmistakably human voices.

They crawl forward even slower, and reach a ledge that overlooks a large cavern filled with stalagmites and stalactites. Two white-cloaks are sitting on a stone, their torches leaning against one of the protrusions.

Cloak 1: "...too yellow, ya are. Scared o' Alva huntin' you down and gettin' ya."

Cloak 2: "Well, ain't you?! You saw what happened to the last deserter."

Cloak 1: "Aye, skinned alive...but then, Cayten was never the sharpest blade, was he? He was barely 5 miles from the barrow when they caught him, and was lollygaggin' like he had all the time in the world! But us? We can be halfway to the coast before she notices we're missing."

Cloak 2: "Just like that? Snap our fingers, and we're there?"

Cloak 1: "Would you rather stay, and get slain by...whatever's here? Backlash has come; anyone with half a brain knew it'd be here sooner rather than later. But Alva wants to sit in the barrow, fiddle with her artifacts, instead o' goin' out and proper raidin'. Every village within a weeks march o' here shoulda been put under the yoke or destroyed months ago, instead o' just peckin' away at 'em."

Cloak 2: "Oh, and you're the master strategist? There ain't but what, thirty-two of us? Why do you think Alva is fiddlin', as you put it? So's she can get enough power to compensate for the lack o' numbers."

Cloak 1: "Now who's tryin' to be the strategist? I tell ya, the good times are over. Retribution's here. I can smell it."

Cloak 2: "You and your nose. You can't smell nothin' but your own unwashed ass."

The conversation continues in this vein. Ravik listens hard, but there don't seem to be any other people near.

He nudges Ereshki and whispers: "I'm going to try something. Be ready if things go awry."

Ravik "throws" his voice, making it sound like he's standing 30 feet from the white-cloaks.

Ravik: "You're right to desert. Alva's days are numbered, and her followers will be also be swept along in the storm of destruction we plan to unleash. But if you aid us, we'll let you go free."

The white-cloaks spring to their feet and draw their shortswords. Both are clearly mystified that nobody is actually near them.

Cloak 2: "What trickery is this?! Show yourself!"

Ravik: "Not until I know your true goals. Are you actually ready to desert, or just running your mouths? Decide now, or lose this opportunity."

The second white-cloak starts to respond, but the other holds up a hand to silence him. They whisper among themselves for a few moments, then the first white-cloak speaks.

Cloak 1: "You've got our attention, stranger...but we don't know who you are, and we don't like talkin' to the air."

Ravik: "Too bad. But I will say this: I slew Dreko, the Varou, and found Alva's hidden tunnel."

He then gives some details about his actions to convince the two. The first white-cloak chuckles.

Cloak 1: "You've been a busy lad...if you're tellin' the truth. You've got me interested. But I still wanna see ya, make sure you ain't a ghost or some lyin' trickster."

Ravik: "Again, no. I must be satisfied before I reveal myself. What about your friend? Does he agree? He seemed hesitant earlier."

Cloak 2: "I am hesitant. I'm not abandoning Alva because some strange voice tries to charm me. You could just as easily be a servant of Alva herself, meant to test our loyalty. I----"

He's cut short, as the other white-cloak plunges his short-sword into the second white-cloak's neck! The man gasps and gurgles, then collapses and goes into his death throes. The first white-cloak pulls out his sword and wipes it down with a rag.

Cloak 1: "Hope that convinces ya I'm serious. I'll tell ya everything I know if you get me outta here. A fair deal, I think. Now, can we get down to business?"

Ravik smirks at the betrayal, but Ereshki is aghast.

Ereshki, whispering: "A true blackguard! Shouldn't we just kill him now? He may do the same to us, given half a chance."

Ravik, whispering: "No, he won't...as long as we keep our end of the bargain. Stay here."

Ravik jumps down to the floor, which is about a fifteen-foot drop. He then walks slowly over to the white-cloak, until he's within the torchlight. The white-cloak's sword remains drawn, and he watches Ravik warily.

Ravik: "My name is Ravik Vett, an Ironsworn who's vowed to destroy Alva...and also destroy or disperse her followers."

Cloak 1: "Hmmm...you certainly look dangerous. Though that Varou tagged you a few times, didn't he? Name's Benton."

Ravik: "Just Benton?"

Benton: "For now, yeah."

Ravik: "Fair enough. So, Benton: we know these caves well. We can escort you through them, to any number of exits that are a good deal away from the barrow. You'll have a decent head start, because Alva will likely believe you've been captured or killed. After that, you're on your own. In exchange, you answer all our questions about Alva, the barrow, and her followers. Agreed?"

Benton: "What exactly is 'a good deal away'? I don't wanna be plopped a quarter-mile from the barrow."

Ravik: "I mean miles away. Or we can find you a hiding spot in these caverns, and you can wait out the conflict."

Benton shakes his head: "Nope. Ain't stayin' here. One thing, though: seems you've got allies. I wanna be assured I can trust them."

Ravik: "You can. You have my word that none of us will harm you, as long as you remain true to your word."

Benton ponders this for a minute, occasionally glancing at the corpse of his former comrade.

Benton: "Eh, already made my decision, ain't I? Fine, I agree to your terms."

Ravik: "We've tarried here too long. Ereshki, can you lead us to a different area?"

The elf drops drops down from the ledge, as Ravik did, and walks over. He eyes Benton with unmistakable scorn. Benton appears curious, but not frightened; however, his bone mask does cover much of his face, making his expression sometimes difficult to read.

Ereshki: "That was a quick betrayal, friend."

Benton: "The elves are involved? Even more proof I chose wisely. As for your...criticism, I know which way the wind is blowin'. If I refused to help, you all probably woulda killed me, eh? Better to make sure you know I'm serious, like I said."

Ravik: "Perhaps we would've killed you...perhaps not. But arguing is pointless. The deal has been made."

Ereshki: "By you, without my consent."

Now Benton does seem worried. He takes a few steps back and puts a large rock between him and the two.

Benton: "What is this, Ravik?! If you and your crew are infighting, how can I trust you to get me outta here?!"

Ravik gives an encouraging smile to Benton, then turns to Ereshki with a stern look.

Ravik: "A minor disagreement, Benton...nothing more. Isn't that right, Ereshki? I don't think you want to escalate this situation...."

He puts an edge in his tone for the last sentence, which doesn't pass unnoticed by either Benton or Ereshki. The elf glares at him for a moment, but then sighs.

Ereshki: "Fine. Follow me. But I want to be consulted next time you try something like this."

Ravik says nothing in response. Nonetheless, the elf heads down a passage, and the other two follow. The twists and turns clearly irritate and confuse Benton; he begins muttering about "hopelessly lost" and "slaughtered in the dark." Ravik leans close and whispers some words of encouragement, but they have little effect.

Finally Ereshki stops in a cavern containing a large pool of water. In the dim light of their torches, the pool looks black and ominous. But the water is still, and they can hear nothing besides the drip-drip of water.

Benton: "Now that ain't somethin' I wanna drink or dive into."

Ereshki: "You will dive in, if necessary. This pool is only three feet deep at most, and there's a tunnel at the far wall. If we're ambushed, we dive in, swim through the tunnel, and emerge on the other side. From there, we have five different passages we could take to elude any pursuers. But I doubt we'll encounter danger here. I heard some voices while we walked, but they were far-off."

Benton: "If you say so, elf. So, what now? Guess it's time for me to spill the beans?"

Ravik: "It is. Tell us everything."

Benton first explains how he became part of Alva's crew. His tale is hardly unique: born in poverty, family moved around, few opportunities when he came of age. "It was either farmwork or banditry...and grubbin' around in the dirt, or shepherdin' dumb animals, ain't what I wanted to do for the rest o' my days."

Ravik could commiserate, if he wanted. But he doesn't, and remains silent.

Benton's first months as a reaver were extraordinary. Alva was a capable leader, and there was always enough booty to pass around. Benton also claims Alva was known to laugh and enjoy song; wandering storytellers or musicians were guaranteed safe passage if they agreed to entertain her.

Benton: "Then some villager killed her. So fuckin' random. Just some chump with a sword. We brought her here, to be buried, as she requested. This was one o' our hideouts...guess it was her favorite one. Then she...came back. Brought us all together again. Everyone fuckin' rejoiced...yeah, even me. Raidin' the Ironlands with a fighter too stubborn to die as my leader? I thought we'd be unstoppable."

"But Alva...we shoulda been prepared for her...changes. Shoulda known we were dealin' with a wight, not some flesh-and-blood woman. She's colder now. Sterner. Crueler. In that barrow, she...." He trails off.

Ravik: "Go on."

Benton: "Heh. You're a hard man, Ravik. Almost seems like you're eager to hear this...nastiness. Anyway, we expanded the barrow. More space for Alva to...well, do whatever she wanted. Torture. Evil rituals. Bloody orgies. I've seen plenty, and heard of more...."

Ereshki: "Excuse me, Benton, but you expect us to believe Alva's actions offended your morality? We overheard your conversation with your slain comrade. Weren't you criticizing her for inaction? I believe you said you wanted all nearby villages either conquered or destroyed."

Benton: "Ya'll got sharp ears, huh? Alright, yeah, I said that...cuz we're supposed to be raiders, not fuckin' necromancers or warlocks."

Ereshki: "It seems to me that----"

Ravik: "Enough, Ereshki. I'm not interested in a morality debate, only in acquiring useful knowledge. Continue, Benton."

The elf scowls, but doesn't comment further. Benton smirks at Ereshki, then gives graphic details about the happenings in the barrow.

Benton: "Some of the stuff is just done for her sadistic pleasure, but most o' it is to acquire power. She's gotten stronger. Can even summon undead now."

Ravik: "I've encountered one of her bonewalkers. Do you know of any specific artifacts we need to steal or destroy?"

Benton: "Alva ain't too keen on keepin' items. They can be taken from her, like you plan. She'd rather absorb their power herself. Bein' a wight, it seems she has a damned impressive capacity to suck up evil."

Ravik: "What about that cart that arrived last night?"

Benton: "Ah, good ol' Fyodor. How he finds all this shit, I'll never know. Anyway, cart was filled with shackles and irons from the torture-temple o' Yanton. Ever heard o' it? It's a good ways to the east o' here. All ruins now, but decades ago some cultists called Tomorrow's People used it as a base. They'd capture folks and try to 'purify' them...which meant torture and kill. The shackles and so on that were used on the victims supposedly still contain their hate, fear, and rage. Alva means to absorb them."

Ereshki: "I remember Yanton. It was as horrible as you describe. Thankfully, a team of Ironsworn destroyed the cultists and shattered the temple."

Ravik: "It seems they should've been more thorough, if men such as Fyodor are still able to retrieve such fell items. How important is this...absorption to Alva, Benton?"

Benton: "Didn't seem that important at first...but I've heard tell that cursed shit has more juice than she expected. Might wanna end her before she finishes her snacks."

Ravik: "We intend to. Now, tell us about your former comrades. Their personalities, capabilities, schedules, everything."

Benton does so. Much of what he relates has already been learned by Ereshki, but hearing the facts verified encourages Ravik.

Ravik then presses Benton about the barrow, and the turncoat gives a detailed layout. Like the other white-cloaks, he was surprised to learn there was a secret passage, and has no idea if more were built.

Ravik: "Do many share your sentiments about Alva's...mistakes? Could we foment a rebellion, if we pressed the right people?"

Benton: "Doubt it. I'd say ninety percent are behind her. Completely believe she's some 'dark messiah.'"

Ravik: "Organization and zeal are more important than numbers. Tell us about these possible rebels."

Benton goes back over the descriptions of the white-cloaks, providing some potential betrayers.

Finally, all three men fall silent. Water drips into the dark pool, and the flapping of bats can be heard nearby.

Benton: "That it? Dunno what else I can tell ya, but if ya got questions...."

Ravik: "No, that's enough. Hand over your cloak and mask."

Benton is slow to comply, as if he didn't think any of this was real until he discarded his uniform. Finally it's removed, and Ravik stares into the man's face. Pockmarks, beady eyes, wisps of black hair, crooked teeth, a nasty scar across his nose, one ear half-missing...the bandit's life had been far harder than he'd suggested. Ravik doubted there were truly any "glory days" in the service of Alva.

Benton: "Time to fulfill your promise, eh?"

Ravik glances at Ereshki. If the elf weren't here, he'd slay Benton immediately. He'd never sworn an Iron Vow to protect the man, and even if he had, he'd have no problem breaking it. Benton betrayed once, he could betray again; returning to Alva with crucial information about the "interlopers" could put him in good stead with the wight.

But Ereshki would take no part in such a killing, so Ravik simply nods at Benton.

Ravik: "Yes, it's time to lead you to safety...or as much safety as you can find in this wilderness. Tell us which direction you wish to go, and we'll find a route."

Benton: "I wanna head west, to the coast. Maybe get on a ship and sail to some island. Alva never much liked the water. Doubt she'd come huntin' for me...if she even cares I'm gone."

Ravik: "She'll most likely think you're slain. I wouldn't worry overmuch. Change your name and fabricate a personal history, and you should be fine."

Ereshki: "I know a western route through these caves. Follow me."

The three head out, moving at a brisk pace, but still stopping occasionally to converse and make sure no threats are nearby. Again, Ereshki proves a capable guide.

Benton is on edge the entire journey, but nothing emerges from the shadows. Finally, after many twists and turns, and some climbing and crawling, they see daylight ahead: a narrow cave opening with hanging vines swaying gently in the breeze.

Laughing, Benton runs ahead of the other two, steps out into the sun, and breathes deep.

Benton: "We made it! You boys did well. Gotta admit, I still expected ya to stab me in the dark. But----"

He's interrupted by an arrow whizzing past! It grazes against his cheek, causing him to holler in pain. More arrows come, but Benton dives back into the cave mouth, and they clang harmlessly against the rock and earth.

Ravik: "Who's shooting, Benton?! Did you see?!"

Benton: "You mean this ain't some trick o' yours?!"

Ereshki: "Of course not! Why would we travel all this way to kill you, when we could've done so in the tunnels?!"

Benton: "Gotta point there. Well...I caught a glimpse of...something. It coulda been an elf! Looked kinda like you!"

Ereshki: "An elf?!"

The elf's face contorts between confusion and rage. Moving carefully to the exit, he calls out in the elvish language. He's answered in elvish, but the words seem mocking, and more arrows fly into the cave!

Ereshki doesn't retreat, however. He continues to call out, his voice becoming more and more agitated. In turn, the answering voices become more and more mocking.

Finally he scrambles back to the others, and is so angry that at first he can't speak.

Ereshki: "They're my people, alright. But they've allied with Alva, and are hunting us!"

Ravik: "Allied?! The fools!"

Ereshki: "I told you the elves weren't uniform in their opinion of the Reaver. It seems this faction decided to make its move...but I don't know if they were able to sway the entire community, or if they're small in number."

Ravik: "Well, judging from the number of arrows they sent flying, there are at least five out there. What do you think, Ereshki? Can you convince them to stand down...or trick them?"

Ereshki: "Trickery is your forte, Ravik. And they seem zealous. You heard their mocking words. I recognized some of those voices, and they recognized my voice...but they won't hesitate to kill me. They made that clear."

Ravik: "Zealous indeed. They fired immediately on Benton, and continued firing on you. They must have orders to attack anyone not wearing a white cloak and a bone mask. Alva's vengeance boils over...."

Benton: "Well, what the fuck are we gonna do?! We had a deal! I don't wanna get trapped in this cave and hunted down like a dog!"

Ravik: "Our deal was to escort you to an exit. We've done so. But it would be...dishonorable to abandon you now. We must stick together, for a bit longer. Ereshki, are there other ways out that still keep us pointed west?"

Ereshki: "Of course. But those exits may also be watched. After all, I didn't think this area would be under guard, but here we are."

Ravik: "And yet they haven't stormed inside yet. They don't know our numbers, or our capabilities. They'll likely send word to their allies and try to come at us with overwhelming force."

Ereshki: "Their hesitation is our advantage. You have a plan brewing, Ravik?"

Ravik: "I think we must do something unexpected...."

Ereshki: "Not every strategy has be something bold and astonishing, Ravik. I doubt they have the numbers to swarm these caves and overwhelm us. Let us retreat back into the darkness and pick off our foes one by one, if they're foolish enough to venture after us."

Benton: "Agree with the elf. I ain't o' fan of these caves, but ya'll know your business. We got a better shot at survivin' if we're ghosts."

Ravik: "You're forgetting that Alva gets stronger by the day. Once she absorbs those artifacts from Yanton, how powerful will she be? Who knows, she may simply collapse the caves with her might, and bury us under unfathomable amounts of earth and stone. We can't play the long game."

Benton: "Dammit...you don't do optimism, do ya?!"

Ereshki: "No, he doesn't...but I have to concede his point. I know Ravik believes I spent too much time observing instead of acting. Now look at the elvish situation. If I'd returned to my people earlier, instead of huddling in these caves, perhaps I could've stopped these turncoats."

Benton: "Well, consider another possibility: Alva's so pissed off that she's huntin' us herself, and won't take time to absorb that evilness until we're flayed and dead."

Ravik: "Indeed it's possible. But we have foes in front of us, and I want to send a message...like I did with the Varou."

He pulls out Benton's white cloak and bone mask and begins putting on both.

Ravik: "Here's my plan: we fake a fight inside here. Make it loud and realistic. I then emerge dressed as one of Alva's followers, bloodied but victorious...or so it appears. I'll lull the elves into a false sense of security, then we strike."

Benton: "What?! You said there were at least five o' them! Even with total surprise, those ain't good odds!"

Ravik: "If I get a good jump on them, I can take down at least two myself."

Ereshki chuckles: "Oh really? Like with Dreko?"

Ravik also has to chuckle: "You won't let me forget that, will you? Nor should you. Nonetheless, I'm confident this can work; you both know my skill. And I'm the one putting my life directly at risk. You both stay here and pretend to be defeated, and run should they see through my ruse."

Ereshki: "One wrong word, and those elves will slaughter you. It's a huge gamble, Ravik."

Ravik: "Not at all. I'd say the odds of success are excellent. If those elves had any initiative, courage, or wits, they would've at least tried to get a glimpse inside this tunnel. Instead, they stay hidden in the trees, waiting for their overlord to command them."

Benton: "Eh, that's hittin' a little too close to home...but it's your life, Ravik. Tryin' to talk you outta this is probably a waste o' time."

Ereshki: "Yes, it sadly is. Very well, Ravik. We'll try your plan. May the gods and spirits grant you...and us...success."

The trio simulate a pitched battle, complete with the clash of weapons, roared challenges, and fake screams of agony.

Ereshki and Benton then move behind some rocks, to await the result of Ravik's plan. Ravik slices his forearm with Benton's borrowed shortsword, then sprinkles blood all over himself to make his appearance more believable.

He then calls out to the elves: "Hold your fire! I've killed two of these creeping rats!"

A stir can be heard outside. Finally, a wary question: "Who are you?"

Ravik: "I'm Sigurd, one of Alva's faithful! Now will you let me step out so we can converse properly, or are you so skittish that you attack everything you see?"

Ravik had gotten the name of Sigurd from Benton, and modified his voice to match Sigurd's supposed "tough barking," as Benton put it. This Sigurd was supposed to be one of the more formidable white-cloaks.

Elf: "Step out then, Sigurd...but if you aren't in the proper attire, there may be...consequences."

Ravik: "Oh, really? Your threats wouldn't intimidate a toddler. But I am wearing the cloak and mask, as you'll see...if your minds aren't totally enfeebled."

Ravik moves slowly to the cave exit, then steps into a shaft of light to reveal himself. There's murmuring from the nearby trees, but no arrows come, so he steps out fully into the open air.

A few seconds pass, then five elves move towards him, their bows still at the ready...though thankfully not pointed directly at him.

Ravik scrutinizes them quickly. They have the otherworldly aspect of elves, but not quite like Ereshki. Instead, their sneering, nervous expressions indicate greed, distrust, and low cunning.

I've seen gutter trash with more honor. Little wonder they joined a monster such as Alva.

Elf: "You slew two of these interlopers, you said? How, exactly?"

Ravik raises the shortsword: "With this. How else? If your aim wasn't piss-poor, my job would've been far easier."

Elf 2: "Hard words, Sigurd. We're on the same side, you know."

Ravik: "Are we now? Sadly, you're mistaken. BY GAGARDIN'S FLAME, STRIKE!"

That yell is the signal for Benton and Ereshki to attack...and they don't fail Ravik! Both surge out of their hiding places, while Ravik hurtles towards two of the shocked elves! The battle begins!

Ravik is able to get in close, as are his allies. The elves have daggers in addition to their bows, but they don't have time to switch weapons before the trio strike.

Ravik's confidence in his plan proves foolish, as the two elves dodge his shortsword attacks with frustrating ease. Ereshki and Benton haven't done any damage either, and the battle thus far has been more of a dance than a vicious fight.

Then one of the elves speaks: "Stop this, you fools! If you are enemies of Alva, then we're allies, not enemies! We've only been pretending to serve her!"

Benton: "You think we're idiots?! You shot at me as soon as I left the cave! Ain't nothin' you've done has convinced me you're our friends!"

Elf: "And you remained unscathed when we shot at you! If we wanted you dead, you would've been killed immediately!"

Ravik sees the doubt on his allies' faces, and even he is confused and alarmed. This elf is either a smooth liar, or he's actually telling the truth. Either way, the trio no longer have the momentum.

Ravik decides to take no chances with these cunning elves. Even if they are secretly enemies of Alva, they're still presenting themselves as opportunists; being an opportunist himself, Ravik knows that alliances with such folk will always be tenuous.

Ravik: "Ignore their lies! Strike hard, strike fast!"

He jumps back, drops Benton's sword and shield, and pulls out his dart gun. The two elves angrily advance, but Ravik manages to shoot two darts filled with a paralyzing potion. Both go down...but one manages to slash his forearm with a dagger before falling!

Ravik grits his teeth, ignoring the pain and dripping blood. It's now three versus three, and Ereshki and Benton seem emboldened by his decisiveness and prowess. The battle continues!