As Justin hurried back down the main palace corridor, the sound of rattling armor and shouted orders grew louder.

He ducked into a darkened chamber—some kind of storage room filled with covered furniture—and held still as a squad of guards rushed past outside.

When silence returned, he continued toward the throne room.

As he descended a staircase, crimson lights filled his vision—his Shadowhunter's Insight detecting multiple undead presences from somewhere below, their auras blazing like beacons.

I'm detecting undead near the throne room, Justin reported to Alistair. Multiple signatures. Blackwood was interrupted when I spoke with him earlier. A guard told him something was happening with the Queen.

There was a pause before Alistair responded. Then whatever they've been planning with those blood crystals is happening now.

I'm heading there, Justin said.

Wait for us, Alistair commanded. If Blackwood is involved and there are multiple undead, you'll need backup. Meet us at the South Solarium on the second floor. It's as far south as you can go without entering the Royal Wing. That area should have lighter guard presence, especially if the Queen is in the throne room on the first floor.

Understood. On my way.

He broke the connection and ran, then reached out for Myrelle. Update on your position?

I escaped Lord Tylin. I'm headed toward your last known location.

Turn back! Guards are swarming that area. We're meeting at the South Solarium instead. Do you know where that is?

Yes. Where are you now?

Justin glanced around. Some hallway in the East Wing, I think. There are portraits everywhere.

Very helpful, Myrelle replied. Describe one of them.

Justin studied a portrait of a stern woman in robes, holding a ceremonial staff topped with an amethyst rooster. There's a woman in purple and gold robes, holding a staff with a rooster on top. She looks angry.

Ah, yes, that would be Queen Margaery the Third. You're in the Gallery of Monarchs, which means you're closer to the Solarium than I am. Head south—toward your right if you're facing Margaery. The Solarium will be at the end of that corridor. Wait for me there; I'm three minutes behind you.

Got it.

Justin followed Myrelle's directions, moving as quickly as stealth would allow. The palace was in chaos—servants hurried past with worried expressions, minor nobles were being escorted toward exits, and the Queensguard took positions at key junctions. Justin, with careful maneuvering, avoided them all.

Justin found the corridor Myrelle had described. At its end lay the Solarium, a glass-walled chamber designed to capture southern light, filled with potted plants and furniture. It appeared empty.

Justin positioned himself near the entrance, able to watch both the corridor and the Solarium's interior.

Within two minutes, Myrelle joined him. "Thank the Six. I was beginning to think Lord Tylin would never stop talking about grain storage."

"My friends are on their way."

"Your friends? I suppose I finally get to meet them."

Justin nodded. "Yes. But before that... Myrelle, you've done a lot already. There's still a chance you might escape this without harm."

She smiled. "This is my mission now, too, even if I don't understand the specifics. And I don't believe Blackwood or the Cult would let me rest now that I've been seen with you."

Justin supposed that was true enough. "Myrelle, Lady Scarlet was a vampire. I killed her, but she'd already passed the blood crystal to someone—probably Blackwood."

Myrelle's eyes widened. "A vampire? And she was hiding in plain sight..."

"She said she'd been perfecting her craft for over a century at the highest levels. A new face every generation, she said. She knew exactly what the crystal was and what it was for." Justin paused. "And something is happening near the throne room. I'm detecting multiple undead there."

"The throne room," Myrelle repeated, her face going pale. "Justin, if they're planning something with Her Majesty..."

Footsteps in the corridor made them tense, but it was Alistair who appeared, followed by Lila and Eldrin. All three looked somewhat disheveled but otherwise ready for action. Alistair was not in his usual Templar garb but was still heavily armored with his war hammer in hand. Eldrin held his black Eclipse Weaver's bow, while Lila brandished two of her Chromatic Knives.

"We had to take the long route," Alistair explained. "The direct path was blocked by Queensguard."

"Which means the Cult's influence runs deeper than we thought," Eldrin added. "If they can control palace guards, this conspiracy runs deeper than we ever thought..."

"We can't trust anyone in Aranthian crimson," Alistair finished. He looked at Justin. "What's our situation?"

He nodded. "First, introductions. This is Lady Myrelle Corrin. She's in this as much as we are."

She nodded. "Any ally of Justin's is an ally of mine, but now's not the time for pleasantries. If you're his friends, I can only assume he's told you a bit about me."

Justin quickly summarized the fight with Lady Scarlet, the missing crystal, and the undead presence near the throne room. As he spoke, Alistair's expression grew increasingly grim.

"Whatever they're doing, it involves the Queen," Alistair said when Justin finished. "I have a theory."

"What's that?" Justin asked.

"They're controlling her somehow," Alistair said. "Or perhaps they aim to."

"Assuming that's true, they want to use her as a puppet," Eldrin said.

"And now that their crystal supply has been interrupted," Justin added, "they're resorting to more desperate measures. They needed that crystal, and Lord Tennyson delivered it directly to them."

Silence fell over the group as the implications sank in. Of course, it could be something else, but Alistair's theory made a chilling sort of sense.

"So what do we do?" Lila asked, looking to Alistair and Justin. "This means going against Blackwood and whatever undead he commands. What if he's not involved at all?"

That was an angle Justin hadn't considered, but at this point, he seemed to be clearly involved somehow.

"I don't see how he, or anyone, could have sneaked undead into the throne room," Justin said.

"There is one way in, aside from the main entrance," Myrelle said. "A hidden door behind the throne itself."

"It's not so hidden if it's common knowledge," Lila said.

"It's not common knowledge," Myrelle said. "When I was about ten or so, Princess Madeline showed it to me and made me swear never to reveal that knowledge."

"A way in, potentially," Lila said.

"Possibly," Myrelle admitted. "Madeline said it can't be opened by anyone but the monarch or perhaps her closest confidants. But I doubt we can get in the standard way, and if we can, it's only because Blackwood allows it."

Alistair's expression hardened. "Whatever the case, we must stop him. Even if my theory isn't right, something is going on. A dead vampire is proof of that. This will mean confronting Blackwood directly and demanding answers, and failing that..." He left the rest unsaid. "We must be strategic. If we storm in like a war party, we'll be seen as traitors and assassins. We need evidence, witnesses, proof of what they've done."

"I have the vampire dust," Justin said.

"And I have credible witnesses to the blood crystal operation," Myrelle said. "Lady Celine and Lord Tennyson. The master of this conspiracy can't kill all of us, not in a single day, at least."

Alistair nodded. "Right now, we need to ensure the Queen's safety. That's what matters."

Lila checked her potion supplies, distributing several vials to everyone. "Drink these. Evasion boosters for everyone, plus increased healing if you get hurt. It's not foolproof, but it'll help."

Justin downed his potion and looked at Myrelle. "How do we get to that secret entrance?"

She nodded. "Yes. We noble children used to play in the palace tunnels during adult events. I remember that well. We actually got lost one time, but that's an aside. I still remember enough to find what Madeline showed me."

"And if that doesn't work?" Lila asked. "Do we retreat and get Tiffany's help?"

"Tiffany can't act quickly enough," Alistair said. "If we wait, the Cult will consolidate their power and control the narrative. Investigations, if any happen, will take months. We'll be disgraced beyond redemption."

"And she's much farther than a mile, meaning Elea's Whisper can't reach her. Though I could try."

"Let's try to figure our own plan out first," Alistair said. "The palace tunnels sound like a good place to start."

Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.

"Then let's move," Justin said.

"If you're serious about this, I can lead you straight there," Myrelle said.

Alistair placed a hand over his heart. "I am, Lady Myrelle. Do so with all speed."

"Then follow closely. There's actually a way in not far from here."

Within minutes, they reached a small wardrobe in an empty chamber. It was under lock and key, but Alistair's hammer made short work of that.

Myrelle cracked the doors open to reveal a narrow staircase descending into darkness. A sickly sweet scent of decay wafted from below.

"That's not encouraging," Lila said.

"This shouldn't take long," Myrelle said. "Be ready."

[Alistair, Eldrin, and Lila have joined the party.]

Myrelle led them down the narrow stairs. The light from Justin's cane revealed years of grime and neglect.

"These passages are ancient," Myrelle whispered. "Built long before the palace was constructed. These days, they're used for storage and a way for the royal family to escape unseen, should the worst happen."

Justin took this information in as the scent of decay grew stronger with each step. Justin's Shadowhunter's Insight remained quiet—no warnings lit his vision. Nor did Alistair make any comment, though his Paladin's Sense should have been going haywire by now.

"Clearly enchanted against detection," Alistair said. "I don't see how this could escape the Templar's notice otherwise."

Justin considered this. It did stretch credulity. It was almost enough to make him wonder if they knew this was going on and chose not to intervene, though he could see no good reason for that being the case.

Over the next few minutes, Myrelle led them through the darkness, seeming to know her way perfectly. Eventually, they reached a junction. Torch brackets lined the walls, empty and rusted. The stone floor was covered in dust that showed recent disturbance—multiple sets of footprints leading deeper into the darkness.

Alistair suddenly stopped. His face went pale, and his jaw clenched.

"Alistair?" Lila whispered.

The Paladin's voice was tight as he indicated Myrelle should step back, which she did.

"I'm detecting death marks," the Paladin said. "Strong. This presence... it's like nothing I've felt before."

"I don't sense anything," Justin said. His Shadowhunter's Insight should have been screaming by now if Alistair was right. "Besides, how was I able to detect undead in the throne room if the palace is enchanted against detection?"

"Perhaps the throne room was left open to scrying," Lila suggested. "Especially if Blackwood is trying to draw us there."

"Or perhaps it was out of bounds of this particular enchantment," Eldrin offered.

Alistair took a breath. "Whatever the case, it's advanced magic. The work of a high-level Necromancer, perhaps."

"Or a Lexicant," Justin said quietly, thinking of Valdrik.

Eldrin drew his longsword; his arrows would do no good in these close confines. "Any idea what we're up against?"

"There are several undead ahead," Alistair confirmed. "Though you didn't need me to tell you that. They shouldn't be powerful individually, but numerous. Zombies, most likely."

"Good thing we have a Paladin," Lila said.

Myrelle's face was pale. It seemed as if she were having second thoughts, but it was too late to back out now.

"Be ready," Alistair said, continuing on.

They moved forward. The passage opened into a larger chamber that may have been a common room long ago. Stone benches lined the walls, and a fountain stood in the center, its basin cracked and filled with debris.

That was when Justin saw them. Three figures shuffled in the dim light, their movements jerky and unnatural. His Shadowhunter's Insight flared to life, painting them in crimson silhouettes; he should have seen them long ago. All were cataloged as Level 12.

But what struck him wasn't the warning—it was their clothing. The zombies wore threadbare coats and patched trousers. One had bare feet, the flesh gray and mottled. Another wore a single boot, the leather cracked.

"Gods," Lila breathed. "They're dressed like beggars."

Justin's stomach turned. "The homeless. Someone's targeted people less likely to be asked about."

The first zombie noticed them and lurched forward with a rasping moan. The others followed, their movements gaining speed.

"Make it quick," Alistair commanded.

The Paladin's war hammer glowed as he brought it down on the first zombie's skull. The creature crumpled, dissolving into ash and shadow.

Eldrin's longsword caught the second zombie through the throat, and it staggered back before Lila's knife found its brain.

The third lunged at Justin. He knocked it back with Gentleman's Rebuff, pivoted behind, and drove his cane through the base of its skull. The creature let out a final wheeze before collapsing.

[360 experience gained. Your experience stands at 16,110/37,000.]

"Poor souls," Myrelle said. "They deserved better."

They moved on, encountering two more groups of zombies as they navigated the labyrinth. Each time, the same story—ragged clothing, emaciated frames, evidence of lives lived in desperation before death twisted them into servants of darkness.

Finally, Myrelle led them to a wide stone staircase that ascended into shadow. Unlike the rough passages behind them, these steps were carved from marble, though dust and neglect had dulled their former glory.

"This is it," Myrelle said, pointing upward.

Alistair studied the door at the top of the stairs. He approached, placing his hand on the stone. "Divine authority should suffice. We Templar Paladins are granted privileges within many enchantments, common and rare."

"Let's hope it suffices," Eldrin said.

As promised, golden light flared around Alistair's palm, and Thaumic runes began to glow along the door's edge. Justin's heart raced, knowing that within moments, they would be face-to-face with Blackwood and whatever he was planning with the Queen.

Alistair stepped back. "This may take time to take effect. Let's make our battle plan."

"What do you have in mind?" Eldrin asked.

"I'll take point and draw their attention," Alistair said. "Paladins are equipped to fight against death-magic practitioners. Justin, you'll be the backup tank and damage dealer. Listen closely if we need to swap positions."

Justin nodded. "Got it."

"Lila, party buffs," Alistair continued.

"On it," Lila confirmed. "I've got a few new tricks up my sleeve."

"Eldrin, ranged damage and poisons," Alistair added. "Keep your distance and pick your shots carefully."

Eldrin simply nodded.

"And me?" Myrelle asked.

"Damage dealer," Alistair said. "Stay mobile."

The runes were now glowing steadily. Within seconds, the door would open.

"Justin, watch for my signal. When the time is right, activate Sapphire Aegis and bring down whoever's leading them—Blackwood or otherwise. You have it available still, right?"

Justin nodded. "I do."

They formed at the base of the stairs. Lila began a song, her voice weaving through the air. Justin felt warmth spread through his limbs as the buff took effect—reflexes sharpened, strength increased, confidence bolstered.

[Song of the Valiant is active. All party members gain +3 to all Attributes for one hour.]

That must have been a new one, perhaps her Level 19 unlock. It would be nice since the buff lasted long and would stack with her Bardic Inspiration. Myrelle's eyes widened as she watched Lila's knives levitate around her.

"I suppose I'm about to see what a real adventuring party is made of."

Justin smiled. "Is it everything you hoped and dreamed?"

She laughed lightly. "Hardly."

"Everyone ready?" Alistair asked.

They gathered their weapons. Justin drew a steadying breath.

Alistair pushed against the stone door.

It didn't budge.

He pushed harder, grunting with effort.

The runes flared brighter, crimson light erupted across its surface, forming a telltale veil.

"Shit," Justin said.

[Vault Discovered: The Throne of Shadows]

Level: 37

Average Party Level: 20.4

Risk Level: Do you really have to ask?

The Cult of Morvath has infiltrated the Royal Palace of Belmora and has orchestrated a plot using blood crystals to enthrall Queen Eleanor II. Who can say how long she has been under their spell, acting in their interests?

Now, they turn their attention to another, darker matter...

This is an Open Vault: anyone can enter or leave it by crossing its veil, which, upon acceptance, will expand to cover the entirety of the palace grounds.

The Vault ends when any of these conditions are met:

1. The Vault Master is neutralized.

2. The Vault Master escapes the vicinity of the Vault, causing its magic to collapse.

3. The Cult's ritual is complete.

It is whispered that deep beneath the palace of Belmora, there is a weapon of old, powerful enough to stand against the tide of darkness, that will only condescend to be used by those of royal blood.

But do you and your party have time to explore these depths before the ritual completes?

Rewards Upon Completion:

1. A Platinum Tier Full Armor Set

2. The Gratitude of Queen and Queendom

3. The Chance for Rare Treasure

[Do you accept the Vault's challenge?]

Silence stretched. Justin felt time ticking. If they wanted to stop Blackwood and the ritual, they had no choice but to accept.

"An Open Vault," Alistair said. "They are rare but can occur in developing situations like this."

"Blackwood likely used it to entrench his position," Eldrin said.

"It's not a natural manifestation," Alistair confirmed. "Someone created this. Someone with real power."

"Someone above even Blackwood's abilities?" Justin asked. "What level is he, anyway?"

Alistair shook his head. "That's hard to say."

"So," Lila said, "do we go in? Or try to find this weapon?"

"I think we have to find the weapon," Justin said.

"But it can only be used by someone of royal blood," Myrelle said. "I am of noble blood, but never has a Corrin sat the throne, as far as I know, unless in the days lost to memory and history."

"Lila might qualify," Justin suggested.

Myrelle watched her. "And from what house do you hail?"

Lila smiled. "Starfire."

Myrelle's eyes widened. "Starfire? Like from the legend?"

"It would take too long to explain, and I can't say it will work. But assuming the meaning of the Vault is literal... we might have a chance."

"Either way, we are under-leveled," Eldrin said. "And we've taken too much time."

"The Vault was created to force us into making a rash decision," Alistair said. "But I see no choice. The Queen is in danger. The Cult has made their move. Every second we wait is a second closer to catastrophe."

Justin adjusted his top hat and stepped toward the barrier. "Then we have to accept. What other option do we have?"

"Running, like the Vault suggested," Lila said. "But that means abandoning the Queen..."

"And the Vault description suggested she's been under their thrall for a while," Myrelle said. "There is no time. No choice."

Alistair looked at each of them in turn—Lila, Eldrin, Myrelle, Justin.

Then he planted his war hammer on the stone floor, the sound echoing through the passage like a judge's gavel.

"I won't lie to you," he said. "This is likely the end of our road. We're here because we followed the truth wherever it led, and it's brought us to a Vault, to an enemy far beyond our abilities."

Justin swallowed hard.

"But we are the only ones who can stop it. Therefore, we must try." Alistair's gaze swept across them. "Beyond that wall, innocent people are in danger. A Queen is enthralled. A country teeters on the edge of destruction. If we walk away now, everything we've fought for will have been for nothing."

His hand tightened on his hammer's grip. "I am a Templar Paladin. I swore an oath to stand against the Forces of Death, no matter the cost. That oath doesn't come with a clause about running when the odds are poor."

He turned to Lila. "Lila, you joined us when you had no reason to. You've faced your demons and come out stronger. Your courage has never wavered."

His eyes moved to Eldrin. "Eldrin, you've proven your wisdom and your steel time and again. You are a friend as brave as any Templar I've known—braver, for you walk into darkness without divine protection."

"And Myrelle..." He nodded to her. "You've risked everything today for people you barely know: your life, your family name, your future. The gods honor that kind of resolve."

At last, he turned to Justin, and his expression softened. "And you, Justin, have perhaps been the most surprising of all. An unlikely hero. Chance met on the road. Afraid, wild-eyed, out of shape, with a class I once laughed at." Alistair smiled—genuine, warm. "I'm not laughing now. The Creator has a plan for you. It's not anything I can sense, but something I know deep in my bones. I don't know why, but with you by my side... I know we can get out of this alive."

The Paladin straightened, and in that moment, to Justin, he seemed larger than life—something out of legend, a figure that belonged in songs and tales.

"We stand together, or we fall together. That's what it means to be a party. To be friends." His voice rang with conviction. "And I would rather face the impossible with all of you at my side than flee and wonder for the rest of my days if we could have made a difference." He met each of their eyes one final time. "When you're ready, we accept. No pressure. No judgment if anyone needs to walk away. But I'm going in."

Justin felt something stir in his chest. Not confidence, exactly, but resolve.

He closed his eyes. Never more than at this moment did he wish he were truly the Creator's "Golden Boy," as Ashralok had called him. The one who couldn't be touched. Alistair's speech had contained hints of the same idea.

But even if that was true... was it true for his friends?

He opened his eyes and found them all still standing there. Lila had drawn her knives, spinning one absently. Eldrin's hand rested steady on his bow. Myrelle's fingers gripped her cane, knuckles white, but her chin was raised.

Justin mentally accepted the Vault challenge. There were a few heartbeats of silence, the world holding its breath, before the fateful words formed in his vision.

[You have accepted the Challenge of the Throne of Shadows. May courage be your guide and resolve your shield. Good luck, Brave Adventurers.]

The crimson barrier pulsed once, twice, and then expanded in an eyeblink, rushing outward in a wave of blood-red light.

And in the throne room, Justin knew the ritual was continuing and that time was running out.

Next chapter will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.