A Tale of Could-be Heroes Book 1: Hero, Dragon, Elf

In the Depths of Bleak Falls: part 2

After a brief search through the musty shadows of the ancient barrow, Aeyrie came across a small, weathered wooden cart. Though it showed signs of age, the wood was sturdy enough to hold the dismembered Draugr. The creak of the cart's wheels echoed ominously in the chamber as she pulled it closer to where her companions were gathered.

Jenassa, ever diligent, had managed to locate the stone tablet within the Draugr's sarcophagus. It was partially obscured by ancient linens and dust, but its surface shimmered with faint, otherworldly runes. Jenassa carefully lifted the tablet, her sharp eyes scanning the intricate carvings for any hidden secrets or traps.

Meanwhile, Uthgerd and Loche worked together to further subdue the Draugr. Despite its weakened state, the Overlord's glowing eyes radiated malice as it continued to resist. Uthgerd's powerful grip and Loche's swift movements made quick work of securing the creature, binding its limbs tightly with ropes reinforced by ancient metal chains they had scavenged from the chamber. The Draugr's growls were muffled by the gag Uthgerd had fashioned, ensuring it could neither speak nor cast any lingering spells.

With the Draugr securely bound, Aeyrie gestured towards the cart. "Load it up," she instructed, her voice steady but tinged with an underlying tension. "We need to move quickly. The sooner we get out of this tomb, the better."

As Loche and Uthgerd heaved the Draugr's now lifeless limbs onto the cart, Aeyrie caught a glimpse of a withered finger twitching ever so slightly, a disturbing reminder of the creature's unnatural persistence. The sight sent a shiver down her spine, but she forced herself to remain composed. She exchanged a glance with Jenassa, who nodded in silent understanding. They had secured the stone tablet, the Golden Claw, and now a subdued Draugr Overlord.

When the group finally prepared to leave, they quickly discovered that their exit would be far more challenging than anticipated. The wooden cart, already burdened with the dismembered Draugr, creaked and groaned as they attempted to maneuver it up a steep flight of ancient stone stairs. Each step felt like a monumental effort, the weight of the cart threatening to topple backward with every pull. The damp, uneven stones provided little traction, and the narrow stairway made it difficult for more than one of them to push at a time.

At the top of the stairs, after what felt like an eternity of grueling labor, they found the opening that led out of the barrow. The cavern's yawning mouth revealed the faint light of dawn seeping in, casting a pale glow on the narrow path that would guide them back to the front of the tomb.

Aeyrie took a deep breath, feeling the cool morning air brush against her face. The sky was beginning to lighten, a hopeful sign that they might be able to reach Riverwood without further incident. She glanced at her companions, their faces lined with exhaustion but resolute. "If we're lucky, we can get this Draugr to Lucan's and stash it there before heading to the Guardian Stones," she said, her voice laced with both determination and weariness.

They carefully maneuvered the cart onto the narrow path, the wheels rattling ominously as they began their descent toward Riverwood. The weight of the Draugr and the steep incline made every step treacherous, but Uthgerd insisted on helping Loche guide the cart down, her strength and determination proving invaluable. Aeyrie and Jenassa followed close behind, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger. The forest around them was still and quiet, save for the occasional rustle of leaves as foxes and rabbits darted across their path.

"Aeyrie?" Jenassa's voice broke the silence, a soft but deliberate inquiry.

"Yes, Jenassa?" Aeyrie responded, keeping her gaze forward but attentive to her companion.

"I would ask you something," Jenassa continued, her tone thoughtful. "When do you intend to tell us the truth about what you meant in the barrow?"

Aeyrie pondered the question as they walked, the dawn light casting long shadows on the narrow path. She knew this moment would come, and she had been preparing for it, but the right words still eluded her.