Shadows of Middlepass: Vhid's Stormy Encounter (Vhid part 2)

 

Vhid was overcome with a profound sadness as the realization of his likely demise settled in. Yet, dwelling on his fate would not change the past. His only path forward was to find Morgath and unravel the mysteries of his existence. He pulled his hooded robe over his head, concealing his skeletal form, and stepped out of the barn.

It was the fifth day of the third week in the first month of the year 89, after the year of The Walker, on the planet of Metphire. As Vhid emerged, he understood why the townsfolk were hastily retreating to their homes. A thunderous storm was rolling in, accompanied by a biting snowstorm. The air was below freezing, but Vhid felt none of it. The sky was a mix of clouds and clear patches, and a strong gale whipped the thunder and lightning clouds in swiftly. An unnatural, heavy fog clung to the ground, casting an eerie glow over the town.

Vhid made his way to The Rusty Anchor Inn, his bony feet crunching on the frozen ground. The townsfolk, preoccupied with the storm, paid him little mind. Inside the inn, the warmth from the hearth was a stark contrast to the icy chill outside. The scent of roasted meats and ale filled the air, and the hum of conversation provided a comforting backdrop.

Vhid approached the barkeep, a jovial man with a round face and a ready smile. "Hello, I'm looking for a room and some information, my friend," Vhid said, his voice a hollow echo.

The barkeep, Pip, nodded enthusiastically. "Hello! I'm Pip, happy to help you with a room. What kind of information are you looking for?"

Before Vhid could respond, a voice from the corner of the room interrupted. "Come over here to my table, my friend. I can answer your questions!" The speaker was a mysterious figure known as The Silent One, his voice deep and resonant.

Pip pointed with his chin to the table where The Silent One sat, and Vhid made his way over. As he sat down, The Silent One slapped a pair of gloves onto the table. "Put these on first. I know what you are. Let's not alarm anyone else. I'll answer your questions, but let's go to my room. I have some clothing that can better cover you up to hide what you are."

Vhid complied, pulling on the gloves to conceal his bony hands. The two of them rose and made their way to The Silent One's room, the mystery of Vhid's existence growing with each step. The room was dimly lit, the air filled with the scent of old parchment and a faint hint of incense. The Silent One closed the door behind them, sealing them off from the rest of the world.

"Now," The Silent One said, his eyes meeting Vhid's glowing sockets, "let's talk about Morgath."

Vhid felt a mix of trepidation and hope. Perhaps, in this stormy night, he would find the answers he sought. The room seemed to echo with the promise of secrets about to be revealed, and Vhid braced himself for whatever truths were about to be uncovered.