The tremors subsided as quickly as they had begun, leaving Flory standing in the eerie silence of the abandoned church. She watched as Lord Mortain vanished into the darkness, his cryptic smile lingering in her mind. Determined to uncover the secrets of the Heart of Nocturne, she carefully approached the pedestal once more.The weathered tome beckoned her with an ancient, almost sentient energy. As her fingers brushed the dark leather cover, the book sprang open, pages fluttering wildly before settling on a particular passage. The words, written in a language long forgotten by mortals, seemed to glow with an inner light.Flory's keen intellect deciphered the archaic script:"In the shadow of the moon's embrace, Seek the blood of thine own race. Through trials dark and paths untold, The Heart's true power shall unfold."The cryptic verse hinted at the challenges that lay ahead. She knew she would need allies-trusted individuals who could navigate the perils of Duskmire and beyond. The artifact's allure promised great power, but its pursuit was not a quest to be undertaken lightly.Leaving the church, Flory headed to a place where secrets were traded and alliances forged: The Drunken Dragon, a tavern known for its clientele of adventurers, mercenaries, and the occasional rogue wizard.
