Shadows of Silvermoor

In 1975, Rossfield City brimmed with hope for the young and ambitious. Among its lucky few, Coby and Vin had secured admission to Rossfield University at the youthful age of twenty—a feat almost miraculous for colonial denizens. Their studies in Agricultural Science and Business Administration promised a brighter future, far from the struggles of their ancestors.

One sunny afternoon, the pair embarked on a field trip to the university farm for a research project. Little did they know that the seemingly routine visit would change their lives forever.

“We’re supposed to get clearance to access the farm,” Vin muttered, his voice trembling.

“Why bother?” Coby shot back, his confidence unshaken.

“Don’t you remember what happened last year?” Vin asked, lowering his voice to a whisper. “A girl went missing for a whole week—turned out she was with the old farm manager. Security’s been tight ever since.”

“We’ll be quick,” Coby assured him, brushing off the concern. “Nobody cares about that old incident anymore.”

Reluctantly, Vin followed, his nerves on edge. At the farm’s entrance, a stern-looking security guard greeted them with a piercing gaze.

“What are you boys doing here?” the guard asked, his tone laced with suspicion.

Coby stepped forward confidently. “We’re Rossfield University students here for a research project.”

Vin, less composed, could barely suppress his shaking legs. Any rule violation meant severe punishment—dismissal and forced labor in the mines.

“Permit slip?” the guard demanded

“We were told IDs would suffice,” Coby lied smoothly, showing their cards.

After a long, skeptical look, the guard waved them through. “Don’t steal anything,” he grunted.

Once out of earshot, Vin let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. “Man, I was this close to peeing myself!”

Coby smirked. “You handled it well, considering.”

“Easy for you to say,” Vin retorted. “Next time, warn me if we’re about to break the rules!”

The boys soon arrived at the sprawling university farm. Lush and vibrant, it was overseen by two managers: the head, Mr. Wesley, and his enigmatic vice, Darius Prowler—a denizen of Silvermoor.

They found Darius lounging outside his modest office, cigarette in hand.

“Hello, sir,” Coby greeted him. “We’re university students—Coby and Vincent. We’d like to speak with Mr. Wesley.”

Darius took a drag from his cigarette, exhaling lazily. “Not happening. He’s probably drunk or busy fooling around. Better turn back, boys.”

“Are you Mr. Darius King?” Coby asked, studying him closely. “I saw a picture once—you look just like the boy in it!”

Darius’s face darkened. “Darius King is dead. Name’s Darius Prowler now.”

“Why would you change your name?” Coby pressed.

“It’s a long story,” Darius replied grimly. “Being a black man in the wrong timeline doesn’t come without a price.”

“But racism’s outlawed here,” Coby countered. “Even the clefts—uh, colonizers—some of them look like us.”

“Don’t let appearances fool you,” Darius muttered. “Those traitors are hiding something.”

Before Coby could respond, a luxurious carriage passed nearby, carrying a wealthy family. Inside, a stunning young woman caught Vincent’s attention.

“Who’s that angel?” Vin whispered, mesmerized.

Darius grinned. “That’s the kind of beauty worth slaving away for. But don’t get your hopes up, kid. She’s out of reach.”

“Yeah, she is an epitome of exquisite True beauty.” Coby commented

As the carriage disappeared, Darius abruptly stood. “Duty calls,” he said, fixing his pants.

“Wait! Can we ask about the farm first?” Coby blurted.

“I don’t have any real authority here kid despite having a freaking degree in agricultural science. But put it away anyway. You have Three minutes.”

Coby quickly explained their research: managing fertilizers to create affordable solutions for local farmers.

Darius laughed bitterly. “The university claims we get 100% supplies. Half of it arrives, half of that goes missing, and we make do with manure. That answer your questions?”

“Where are you going now?” Coby asked as Darius turned to leave.

“To follow the princess. Time for engine to ignite and start pumping,” he said with a wink.

“You’re insane!” Coby exclaimed. “If the clefts catch you stalking her, you’ll be tortured!”

But Darius had already disappeared, trailing the carriage with practiced stealth. He had done this many times, but tonight, an unexpected trap awaited—a danger that would unravel secrets buried deep within Silvermoor.