Chapter 51: Reward and Rumors

The journey back to Oakhaven was thankfully uneventful. Drake and Clunky made good time, and the only creatures they encountered were a few harmless woodland animals. Drake used the time to reflect on his recent experiences in the Shadowfen, particularly the harrowing encounter with the Deep One Guardian. He knew he had pushed himself to his absolute limits, and he was fortunate to have survived. He also realized the importance of mastering his new Void abilities, especially the Void Embrace, which, while powerful, came at a significant cost. He vowed to practice with it more carefully in the future.

As they approached Oakhaven, Drake felt a sense of relief. He was eager to collect his reward, rest properly, and perhaps indulge in a decent meal and a few drinks at the Crooked Tankard.

He arrived at the city gates in the late afternoon, the setting sun casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. He led Clunky to the stables, ensuring she was well cared for, and then made his way to the Adventurers' Guildhall.

The Guildhall was as bustling as ever, filled with adventurers recounting their tales and accepting new quests. Drake approached the front desk, where the same stern woman with short grey hair was still diligently managing the ledger.

"Back so soon?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Mission accomplished," Drake replied, flashing a grin. "I'm here to collect my reward for the Shadowfen investigation."

The woman's eyes widened slightly. "You actually… completed it?" she asked, surprised. "The reports we received were… disturbing. We weren't sure anyone would be able to handle it."

"Let's just say I have a knack for dealing with disturbing things," Drake replied with a wink. "And also, I really needed the money."

The woman nodded and retrieved a small pouch from a drawer. "Here you are," she said, handing him the pouch. "One thousand gold coins, as promised."

Drake took the pouch, hefting it in his hand. It felt satisfyingly heavy. "Excellent," he said. "Time to celebrate."

He thanked the woman and turned to leave, but she stopped him.

"One more thing, Drake," she said. "While you were gone, we received some… interesting reports. From travelers returning from the north."

Drake turned back, his interest piqued. "Interesting reports?" he repeated. "About what?"

"About the Voidwatch," the woman replied. "They say their fortress has been… attacked."

Drake's eyes widened. "Attacked?" he repeated. "By what?"

"No one knows for sure," the woman said. "Some say it was a monstrous creature, others say it was a magical storm. But whatever it was, it caused significant damage. The Voidwatch has sent out a call for aid."

Drake felt a sense of urgency. The Voidwatch was his best lead for understanding the chaotic rift and the Voidlands. If their fortress had been attacked, it could mean serious trouble.

"Do you know where the fortress is located?" he asked.

The woman nodded and pointed to a large map hanging on the wall. "It's located far to the north, in the mountains beyond the Silverwood Forest," she said. "It's a long and dangerous journey."

Drake looked at the map, tracing the route to the Voidwatch fortress. It was indeed a long way, but he knew he had to go. He had to find out what had happened to the Voidwatch and learn more about the powers he had unlocked.

He thanked the woman again and left the Guildhall, his mind filled with thoughts of the Voidwatch and the dangers that lay ahead. He knew his journey was far from over. In fact, it felt like it was just beginning.