No use! We’ve been trying to open the gate for hours now, but it’s magically secured.
One of our mages tried to break the spell; now he’s in the care of the healers!
And Lea?
The tradesmaster only shrugs.
We can keep trying to open the portal, or break down the wall somewhere close to it. Actually, we’re busy with both, but without any success so far. You’ll be told as soon as we do break through.
I’m sorry, but I’m extremely busy right now. We’re in the middle of preparations for the decisive battle. - We can talk after we’ve destroyed the pirates.
With that, he leaves. Guild headquarters look like the inside of an anthill. There are people everywhere, and Lothur appears to be in charge of organizing them.
The mages have done all they can to keep your risk at a minimum. You will have to juryrig arms and armor inside the hive, but you still have a good chance, because it will take a long time for the queen to notice the danger. - Everything else is up to you now, but it’s not for nothing you’re among the finest warriors of Arkania.
It’s quite obvious that Lothur is trying hard to allay your doubts, but he still doesn’t seem all that confident himself.
What kind of a role does the rat catcher play in this strange game, we wonder?
Xebbert Drbann knows the world below Riva like no other. He’s been down here long before us, and he probably knows all the secret passages, better than we do, I’d wager. After all, it was he who first discovered Mandara’s hideout.
I wonder whether there’s a connection between the giant rat we saw and Mandara?
I’d say there is. Consider this: You yourselves told me that her appearance has changed. And the giant rat sucks the blood from its victims, too. I’d say Mandara’s appearance depends on the amount of blood she has drawn.
But how could Mandara’s deeds stay unknown for so long with her need to draw blood at regular intervals…?
They probably didn’t. I have no idea where she came from, but I’m sure Mandara’s been haunting our city for just a short time.
How’s your struggle against the pirates developing?
There are still some preparations to be made, but if everything goes to plan, we’ll catch them in their lair and deal with them.
It is going to take awhile yet, though, until we’re ready for them!
Life goes on. See you!