They were not sure what they would find down there, but they knew it could change everything they believed they knew about monster trafficking and the mysterious deaths. They knew they had reached the place not only because of Cain’s directions, but also because of the horrible stench that emanated from that tunnel. They were beside one of the three small rivers that connected to the city center. In the wall, a dark passage descended into the depths of the ground.

Cain: All right, wait here for a moment. Be careful, there’s very little light for you.

Immediately, he took out a pendant with a small crystal inside. After a few seconds, the gem began to glow, releasing small spheres of light that floated in the air and illuminated the path.

Alana: I thought only mages could perform those tricks.

She said it, fascinated, and she wasn’t the only one—Eleanor was also surprised by the little bubbles of light, since it was the first time in her life she had seen a trick like that.

Daiki (indifferent): It’s probably because of the magical device he has; it’s just a trick.

Yadiel: Yes, but even so, they’re hard to get. The ones that exist are quite expensive.

It was clear that, before their eyes, Cain possessed something of considerable monetary value, which made their intrigue grow. Cain noticed his gaze and, distrustfully, put the pendant away before responding.

Cain: Yes, and it’s not for sale. I don’t know how much it might be worth, but it’s the only legacy I have from my parents.

Daiki (annoyed by the waste of time): It doesn’t matter, just guide us to where you saw the marks.

As those lights moved a bit farther ahead, they illuminated the damp stone walls where moss seemed to protrude, along with the pools of murky water that covered the ground. They made the place quite a sinister landscape, and with the tunnel’s smell the situation worsened, forcing them to cover their noses with cloths or their own hands. They advanced carefully behind Cain, who seemed to know the way. He guided himself by small marks on the stone that he had left with his sword on his previous expedition. The deeper they went, the heavier the air became and the stronger the stench. At that point, the faces of some of them clearly showed a desire to leave.

Yadiel: Not to rush things, but how much farther do we have to go? —it was clear he was the one most bothered by the smell.

Cain: Not much. I checked every part, but whenever I reached a dead end, I found the mark crossed out.

Eleanor (approaching him, she whispered): Are you sure you can keep going? You still look weak…

Cain returned the whisper with a slight smile, without taking his eyes off the path.

Cain: I’m fine. Besides, I couldn’t stay still knowing what I discovered here.

Eleanor looked away, feeling a slight warmth on her face. Shame and concern weighed on her, but above all, the idea that he might get hurt again unsettled her even more.

Alana, who was walking just behind them, couldn’t help but notice Eleanor’s expression and smiled to herself. She understood the situation, but said nothing.

Yadiel (uneasy): All right, we’re already pretty deep in… and we still haven’t seen anything. Hey, Cain, are you sure you weren’t delirious about the creature?

Cain (serious): I’m sure. I wasn’t alone down here.

Just then, a dull noise echoed in the distance. Everyone stopped instantly. As they remained still, silence took over the surroundings, where a constant dripping was the only sound heard in the darkness.

Daiki (drawing his weapon in a low voice): Looks like they’re finally showing themselves.

From the shadows, figures began to move. A group of hooded figures emerged from the darkness, wearing tattered robes and holding knives in their hands. Their faces were hidden by cloth masks, revealing only their eyes. Then a voice rang out, made imposing by the echo, addressing them in a threatening way.

???: You shouldn’t have come back here.

And before they could react or respond, the hooded figures lunged at them.