Story
Chapter 8: Wondering Passages
Our heroes find themselves trudging through the Haunted Woods late at night, searching for a shortcut through the mountains, but it promises to be more difficult than anticipated.
Nyx
Which way now? We have to hurry!
Tavi
Hmmm, probably to the left.
Nyx
Probably? How well do you know this shortcut, Tavi?
Tavi
I’ve never found it myself, but it’s an enduring legend amongst nomads, so I know it has to be up there! Plus, with how fast our enemies are moving, we don’t have much choice.
Luxinia
How are you sure it’s a shortcut if you don’t even know it exists?
Tavi
It definitely exists! It’s from a legendary song passed from hiker to hiker…I’ve heard it sung at campfires around the world during my travels when I was younger.
Nyx
You mean we’re wasting time searching for a myth from a campfire song?!
Tavi
I know how it sounds, but explorers have found it by following the song! It says where to go, what to look for, everything you need to find the secret tunnel!
Tavi
We nomads are certain the passage exists, despite the tribulations around it. It’s supposed to be a rite of passage to find it yourself, so those who claim to have found it won’t disclose its location to others!
Luxinia
And does the song say how to get through it?
Tavi
Not exactly…
Nyx
Okay, let’s say we do find this fabled shortcut. If we spend too long looking for it, then won’t we lose time overall?
Tavi
It’s supposed to cut right through the mountains. Don’t you remember how long it took us to travel last time? We could shave off entire days with this!
Nyx
Days, huh… so we’d get back to finding Ozzy sooner?
Tavi
That’s right! The legend says everything about this passage is a puzzle, and I know the song is the key to finding it. There’s been tales of others succeeding, so it’s gotta be out there!
Nyx
Has there been proof of anyone actually making it through?
Tavi
Well, yes and no… I’ve met hikers who claim to have found it, but I didn’t exactly ask for evidence.
Nyx
Uh huh… so we’re not sure this shortcut even exists?
Baelia
I understand your concerns Nyx, but cutting through the mountains might be the only way to catch Ozzy.
Tavi
Exactly. It is a longshot, but it’s also our best chance at reaching Altador before Ozzy and Vira.
Tavi
Now, let’s all keep an eye out for the entrance. I’ll explain more of what to look out for while we walk.
Nyx
*sigh* If it helps us get to Ozzy faster then I’m willing to trust you on this. Let’s get going!