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The Cleric and the Thief (Scene 2)
A Fantasy Serial Story — Scene Two: “The Hideout”
Author’s Note: The following is a serial fantasy story. I will be releasing this story scene by scene. Be sure to read Scene 1 before you proceed. I welcome any suggestions or edits in the comments.
Scene Two — “The Hideout”
The bandits dismounted their horses and pushed their way through heavy foliage. The branches rubbed against their cloaks, making it difficult to walk.
Tristan stepped ahead and cut the worst of the branches back with his short sword, keeping a few in a pile to burn once they had settled down for the night. The others followed him, carrying a wide array of stolen goods. The sun was beginning to set. They had been riding for over an hour.
Breaking through the foliage, they tied the reins of their horses to a makeshift log and stepped into the dark shadow of a cave. The cavern floor was chilly and damp. The air was musty and wet, but they were home.
“Alright lads,” announced their leader. “You know what to do.” The brigands dutifully carried their stolen goods to a side room, where torches cast the only light. Weapons and supplies were lined up on the wall, and loot was piled on the floor. The pile gleamed in the flickering light, coins glinting and…