Not Another Hero

I could smell the city before I could see it. A cloud of acrid smoke hung above the foothills - a product of the smelting factories that filled my country's coffers. Built on and around a hill, the city looked like a strange stone hump leaking smoke and steam into the air.

We entered through the main gate and made our way to the warehouse district.



"Here's your payment, Marcus, plus a little extra." Chad handed me a bag with one hundred and fifty pieces. "We'll be here a week or so before we turn north. You're welcome to travel with us any time."

After we said our goodbyes, I headed into the city proper to look for a way to get into the gnome section.



I found a man who looked like he could be a merchant and asked him how to get into the undercity. He seemed confused, but gave me directions to a large stone building several blocks away.



Two guards stood next to an ornate iron and wood door with a peculiar lock.

"Alright, then. Let's see your pass." One of them barked at me.