The unexpected allie

As they entered the dimly lit chamber, the scent of damp stone and ancient decay filled the air. Shadows danced across the cracked walls, cast by the flickering torches lining the perimeter. At the far end of the room, a lone figure leaned casually against the wall, arms crossed, watching them with an amused smirk.

He was a rugged-looking warrior, his dark hair slightly disheveled, a scar running just above his left eyebrow. A silver earring, shaped like a coiled serpent, glinted under the torchlight. His clothes, though worn, were those of an experienced traveler—one who had seen his fair share of battles.

Vile instinctively reached for his sword, his sharp eyes narrowing. "Who are you?"

The man let out a chuckle, the kind that suggested he was more entertained than threatened. "Name's Ethan," he said lazily, tilting his head. "And you are...?"

Alex stepped forward, his stance firm. "We're on a quest to find the Cosmic Force. Vile here thought you might be one of them."

Ethan let out a bark of laughter. "Me? Ha! That's a new one." He placed a hand on his chest mockingly. "I appreciate the thought, but I'm no legendary hero. Just a wandering warrior looking for a good fight. And maybe a little treasure along the way."

Kira, always the skeptic, folded her arms and studied him. "What brings you here?"

Ethan pushed off the wall and took a few leisurely steps forward. "Heard rumors," he said, his gaze flickering with mischief. "Something about a powerful artifact hidden in these ruins. Thought I'd take a look. You never know when you'll stumble upon something valuable."

Vile's eyes widened slightly. "Artifact? What kind of artifact?"

Ethan's grin widened, his teeth flashing in the dim light. "Ah, now that's the real question, isn't it?" He tapped his temple. "Let's just say it's something that could change the course of our world. Or destroy it, depending on who gets their hands on it first."

Alex exchanged a glance with Kira and Vile. This wasn't just some treasure hunter looking for gold—he was after something powerful. Maybe even dangerous.

Alex took a step closer, his voice steady. "That sounds like exactly what we're looking for. Will you join us?"

Ethan tilted his head, considering the offer. "Join you?" He let out another amused chuckle. "Ha! I work alone, kid. But… I might be willing to cooperate. For a price."

Kira narrowed her eyes. "And what exactly do you want?"

Ethan's gaze flickered toward her, a playful smirk forming. "Oh, I think we can come to an arrangement. Maybe a little… friendly wager?"

For a moment, the group stood in silence, studying him. Then, out of nowhere—

BAM!

A loud cracking sound filled the chamber as part of the wall collapsed. Dust and debris rained down, filling the air with a thick cloud.

When it cleared, Ethan was already running.

"Hey!" Alex shouted. "What the hell—?"

Vile's eyes glowed as he activated his ability, scanning Ethan's movements. His expression darkened. "He's lying! There is no artifact!"

Kira gritted her teeth. "That bastard—he was stalling!"

Ethan, now halfway toward the exit, turned his head just enough to flash them one last mischievous grin. "Sorry, kids! Can't let you get too close to the truth now, can I?"

Without another word, he dashed through the passageway, his laughter echoing behind him.

Alex clenched his fists. "Damn it, we fell for it."

Vile smirked. "Yeah… but now we know one thing for sure."

Kira's eyes narrowed. "What's that?"

Vile turned toward the exit, a dangerous glint in his eye. "Ethan's hiding something. And I intend to find out what."

As the dust settled, the trio stood in the chamber, the realization sinking in—this wasn't the last they'd see of Ethan. And next time, they wouldn't let him slip away so easily.