The undercity of Yllond was a labyrinth of narrow alleys and concealed passageways,lit dimly by lanterns whose flickering light cast long shadows.Aelira led Kaelen through the maze with practiced ease,her hood pulled low over her face.The sound of distant chatter and occasional clink of coins echoed around them,creating an air of unease that matched Kaelen's growing apprehension."Are you sure this is wise?" Kaelen whispered,clutching his satchel tightly." The kind of people down here.." Are exactly the kind we need" Aelira interrupted sharply. Bryn may be a rogue,but he knows these streets better than anyone.lf anyone can guide us to the ruins ,its him". They arrived at a small tavern tucked into the corner of a crumbling building.The sign above the door depicted a crescent moon,its paint faded and peeling.lnside, the air was thick with the smell of smoke and ale.patrons spoke in hushed tones,their eyes flickering toward the newcomers with suspicion. Bryn was seated at a corner table,his boots propped up on the wooden surface as he toyed with a dagger.He looked up as Aelira and Kaelen approached,a wry grin spreading across his face. "Well,if it isn't my favorite nobl" he drawled,sheathing the dagger with a practiced motion."And who's the nervous one?Your bodyguard?."Kaelen' Aelira said curtly."And no he's the reason we're here.we need your help".Bryn raised an eyebrow,his grin widening. "Help doesn't come cheap love. What's in it for me?. Aelira slid a small pouch onto the table.lt jingled softly,drawing Bryn's attention.He picked it up,weighing it in his hand before opening it to reveal a handfull of glittering gemstones.His grin faded,replaced by a calculating expression."This is a good start" he said slowly."But guiding you through the undercity to some forgotten ruins,That's a risky job.You'll owe me more than just shiny rocks.Kaelen bristled."You're already being paid more than enough.lsn't that enough motivation".Bryn chuckled leaning back in his chair."Motivation ,lad, is a funny thing.You want me to risk my neck for you,l need to know why these ruins matter so much".Aelira hesitated,then leaned closer."The ruins hold secrets tied to the Loom of creation.lf we don't act,the Unraveler_"Bryn held up a hand."Say no more.l've had enough.lf the Unraveler's involved,you'll need more than just me to survive.But for now,l'll guide you.On one condition".Which is?Aelira asked warily."When this is over l get a favor.No questions,no complaints".Kaelen opened his mouth to protest,but Aelira silenced him with a glance."Agreed" she said ,extending her hand.Bryn clasped it ,his grin returning.Then it's a deal.Meet me at the east gate at first light.And bring sturdy boots,it'll be a long journey.As they left the tarven,Kaelen turned to Aelira,his voice low."You trust him?" No" she admitted."But we don't have a choice"The undercity seemed darker as they made their way back to the surface,the weight of their bargain pressing heavily on Kaelen's mind.He couldn't shake the feeling that Bryn's price would be higher than expected and far more dangerous.

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