Chapter 4.1: The New Dungeon Busters start their first mission

For a few hours after supper, Antonius moved easily through the warmth and noise of the Inn of Eternal Rest, his manner polite and measured as he spoke with those gathered. He exchanged courteous words with Klak and Albertus, listened briefly to Karliel’s lilting music, and inclined his head in quiet amusement at Xana’s unexpectedly crude humor.

He spoke little, but listened well—offering a steady presence that drew conversation rather than demanded it. In time, he sought out Amnestria Elyphara, his tone shifting to one of genuine curiosity as he asked of her studies—how she shaped arcane energies, whether she favored structure or intuition, and what she made of magic that lingered near death and memory. When she, or any nearby, asked of his own devotion, Antonius answered simply, resting a hand over the ruby symbol of Wee Jas: "Death has always walked beside me—sometimes as warning, sometimes as mercy. I follow because I have learned to listen."

As the hour grew late, nearing the stillness of night, Antonius quietly excused himself, stepping out into the cool dark of Hochoch to find a quiet gravesite. There, beneath the dim light of the stars, he knelt in solemn prayer, murmuring rites for the dead and for those yet to fall. When he returned, the inn had softened to low voices and fading firelight, and without ceremony, he retired to his room, seeking rest for the trials yet to come.

After hanging out a bit and doing some dicing Dell will retire to his room because he wants to be well rested for the start of their journey. He will bid everyone he met a good evening. He is a bit restless because he just has to find Chase. He hopes he is well and they will be reunited soon.

Sora doesn't partake of anything alcoholic and retires early to be up before everyone else arises. She performs her morning katas in her room before coming down for a small breakfast.

Listening to Olpert Dell can only think that if there was a comrade in trouble he would push himself to save them so he hopes he is safe."How many days to Orlane? I am sure I can find the groups previous camp sights. I know what Chase would look for."

Antonius stood with his usual composed stillness before Olpert Razorsson, one gauntleted hand resting lightly on the pommel of his warhammer. "Boss, if I may," he began evenly, "these spiral-marked cultists—have any shown signs of resisting divine influence, or reacting… poorly to consecrated ground?" His eyes narrowed slightly in thought. "And the troglodytes—are they acting as allies, or thralls? I have seen such creatures bound before by darker powers."

He paused briefly, choosing his next words with care. "One more matter—this disappearance of Joseph. Was there any indication he was taken alive with intent, or simply lost in the chaos?" Antonius inclined his head slightly. "If we are to walk into Orlane, I would prefer to understand not just what we face—but how it thinks."

Amnestria's wagon-lag had not abated by the time the group reached Hochoch, and thankfully it appeared no one expected her to be sociable. All she needed to do was present Olpert with a letter of recommendation (from her parents, of all people) and grunt her acceptance of the suggested task; the realization that more travel would be required had not yet come to her.

As the new day dawns, Amnestria slogs her way through breakfast. Her lower back still aches, and she doubts the heels of her feet will cease their screaming. She stops by the general store with what remains of her coin purse and spends a long time looking at the selection of tents, but ultimately opts for a simple bedroll to minimize weight. She also purchases a waterskin so that she won't have to rely on her companions like she did during the first journey. Finally, she buys a set of traveler's clothes for warmth and comfort rather than simple fashion.

Feeling a bit more like herself as she stands with the group of new Dungeon Busters, Amnestria listens patiently to the questions and jots the answers in her book for later reference. Her voice croaks a question, her first words since arriving in Hochoch, "When we meet with the veteran members, how should we identify ourselves so that they know we are among their ranks?"

Kazzak feels refreshed n the morning. He thinks about last night's conversations with the other Dungeon Busters -- snippets of life outside the clan and the mountains -- and notes to himself how routine his life has become and how much he wants to succeed over whatever challenges lie ahead.

He understands Olpert's advice. One task at a time, he thinks. Like mining one layer at a time. Don't go too deep too fast. Be prepared for the unknown.

He asks Olpert, "Is there a wagon or cart we can borrow for our travels? I'm an experienced driver. If we find the lost people, they might be hurt and not able to walk."

Amnestria nods. "Your words carry wisdom, Razorson. We shall be careful when dealing with anyone in Orlane, and hopefully we will cross paths with allies before we meet any enemies."

She looks to her companions. "I am ready to depart when you are." She glances down at her new boots, which the merchant told her would be better for long travel.

"We could use the wain to bring some cult members back, too. Perhaps the town clerics or wizards can use their magic to get useful information from them if we cannot."

Dell looks at the group"Don't worry about id my brother Chase is obvious. Plus there has always been a sense between the two of when we are close to each other."

Antonius listened without interruption, his expression steady, absorbing each detail as Olpert Razorsson spoke. When the answers were done, he gave a slow, thoughtful nod. "Then the spiral is merely a sign," he said evenly, "and the will behind it lies elsewhere." His fingers tapped once, lightly, against the haft of his warhammer. "But those tunnels beneath the inn in Orlane… that is where the truth will be found. Movement, concealment, indoctrination—everything flows through them. If Joseph yet lives, it is likely he passed that way." His tone sharpened slightly—not with emotion, but with focus. "We will find those tunnels." Then, after a brief pause, his voice returned to its usual calm. "As for the Dim Forest… the dead there are a separate matter, but no less pressing. Rest denied becomes a problem that spreads." He inclined his head faintly. "I suggest we should keep to the road, deal with what rises, and press on to the inn. One step at a time, Boss—but always forward."

Looking at Olpert"Should we openly enter Orlane or should we go in covertly? If they see me they will mistake me for Chase. "