ch. 16

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The night had finally descended, casting shadows over Drake's Head as you, Clive, Torgal, and Cid approached cautiously. Cid led the way to an upper level of the transporting docks near the Glass Gate, ensuring you stayed unseen from the workers and guards. Peering over the cobblestone railing, Clive noted the sparse presence of keepers below.

"There are not nearly enough men here", he whispered, audible only to Cid and you.

"Then it's fortunate the city guard doesn't take sentry assignment as seriously as you do", Cid replied, settling on the ground beside Clive. "This bodes well."

"Hmph. That would be a first. This may not be such a terrible plan after all", Clive remarked, a hint of amusement in his tone.

"And what exactly is that supposed to mean?", Cid inquired.

Clive turned to him, incredulous. "Only that your last 'secret shortcut' was nowhere near as secret as you claimed."

"Ah, but that's half the fun of it. Life's too short for perfect plans. You want a plan that'll keep you on your toes—stop you growing old and complacent", Cid replied.

"Worked for you, has it?", Clive quipped, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips.

"Clive, my boy, even life's smallest challenges offer the opportunity to grow and to change", Cid explained, placing a hand on Clive's shoulder."You must embrace these moments. Allow them to suffuse your heart with a deep sense of fulfillment."

"Narrowly escaping death at the hands of an enemy is not my idea of fulfillment", Clive retorted.

Your giggle interrupted their banter, drawing their attention. "Are you two quite finished?"

Cid finally rose, ready to proceed. "Right. We make for the Mothercrystal's heart, as planned. Destroy it, and the whole thing should come tumbling down."

"And if the passage to the inner sanctum is guarded?", Clive asked.

"Then we embrace the moment and use it to grow and change", Cid replied with a smirk.

As Clive turned towards the entrance, a hint of exasperation crossed his features. You stifled your laughter, keeping the mood serious as you prepared to face the challenges ahead.

"Come on, this way," Cid urged, darting past the two of you and into the dimly lit entrance. "Try to stay out of sight."

Clive let out a resigned sigh as he followed. "Obviously."

You and Torgal trailed closely behind Clive, entering the underground stone fortress after Cid. The passage was dimly illuminated by hung torches, casting flickering shadows across the crates and barrels that cluttered the space. As you ventured deeper into the passageway, you remained alert for any sign of danger.

Suddenly, Cid slowed his pace, halting at an entrance to what appeared to be a dining area. Long wooden tables were surrounded by chairs, and Imperial Legionnaires stood guard.

"Alright. Not quite empty. Let's get this over with," Cid murmured, steeling himself for the confrontation ahead.

Your group wasted no time springing into action against the opposition. You swiftly unsheathed your sword, moving with precision and agility as you engaged each iron-clad foe that crossed your path. Dodging and attacking with faultless timing, you made quick work of the adversaries.

With your teammates following suit, the opponents fell swiftly, and you proceeded towards the exit. The only obstacle in your path was a towering wooden barricade blocking the doorway.

Clive nodded towards you before stepping forward, delivering a forceful kick that shattered the blockade.

"It never stood a chance," Cid quipped as he darted past Clive, offering him a quick pat on the shoulder as he went.

You've reached the end of published parts.

⏰ Last updated: Jun 01 ⏰

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