Chapter 36: The Trial of Trust
The journey to the second village, Redstone, was a grueling one. The path was littered with fallen trees and scorched earth — remnants of the Goblin King's former attacks. Srabon, Mira, and Magnus led the group cautiously, eyes scanning the surroundings for signs of ambush.
"Redstone was one of the hardest hit," Mira said, her brow furrowed. "They lost half their defenses in the last raid."
Magnus grunted. "Which means they're likely to be even more paranoid than Brighthold."
Srabon nodded. "We need to tread carefully. If we come off as desperate, they'll shut their gates."
[New Quest: Gain Redstone's Trust. Reward: 8000 Gold, 6000 Elixir.]
As they approached the gates of Redstone, they were greeted by a line of armed guards, each with a stern, unyielding gaze. At the forefront stood a tall woman with fiery red hair and a massive warhammer slung across her back.
"Who goes there?" she demanded, her voice carrying authority.
Srabon stepped forward, raising his hands in a gesture of peace. "I am Srabon Sharder, Chief of Clashhaven. We seek an alliance to fight a new threat — the Shadow Master."
The woman's eyes narrowed. "The Goblin King is dead. What new threat?"
"One far worse than the Goblin King," Mira said. "And if we don't unite, he'll crush us one by one."
The woman studied them for a moment before stepping aside. "Come inside. Our leader will want to hear this."
---
Inside the village square, they were led to a stone hall where a tall, imposing man with a scarred face sat upon a wooden throne. His eyes were cold, calculating.
"You're the one who defeated the Goblin King?" the man asked, his voice deep and gravelly.
"Yes," Srabon said, holding his gaze. "But the Shadow Master is behind it all. We need your help to stop him."
The leader leaned forward, fingers steepled. "Words mean little in these times. If you want our help, you must prove your strength."
[Quest Update: Gain Redstone's Trust - Complete the Trial of Strength.]
Srabon's heart pounded as the man rose from his throne, eyes glinting with challenge. "If you can best me in combat, we will consider your alliance. If not, you leave empty-handed."
Mira and Magnus exchanged worried glances as Srabon stepped forward, fists clenched. "I accept."
The hall erupted with cheers and jeers as the leader unsheathed a massive broadsword. "Let the trial begin!"