Bonesplinter Ravine [M] Viva La Vida

If he were to rest for even a moment, he feared he might never rise again. So, like a newborn fawn, Machi could do little but quiver on legs too fragile for the weight they bore, catching himself with every light-headed sway. Gold veins glittered and reflected throughout the walls, casting soft, fractured reflections into his half-lidded, milky eyes. He had wanted to tell Eset about the treasures here, perhaps they might return under different circumstances.

Could he run on the leg? Unlikely—and such was confirmed the moment he tried letting it support him. No, that was out of the question, escape would have to come through sheer will and the stubborn endurance of his three remaining, more or less uninjured, limbs.

I'm sure The Abbot's body will suffice, he hissed, drawing a sharp breath as Eset applied what little treatment she could offer. When she at last paused, he stumbled forward into the dim tunnel, each labored breath pulled through clenched teeth. Almost free.

Guards, he cried, his voice raw, echoing down the stone walls as he struggled for air. Guards! This time, louder—desperation giving him voice.

The cry from the sentries was immediate, recoiling as if they had seen a ghost—perhaps they had. Confusion, horror, disbelief—all lay stark across their expressions.

The Abbot—please, the woman... He stammered, the words stumbling from his lips, propped up by the heavy arms of those who had rushed to his aid. One of you—gather everyone. Send them home. It is not safe here. You—check on The Abbot.

Hesitantly, the command was obeyed, the figures each slipping off into the darkness. Then, with Eset called forward, they too would disappear into the shadows.