Caelum's gaze lingered on the woman, and he subtly activated his Observe skill. The system message flashed before his eyes:
[System Message: Observe: Sarah
Condition: Afflicted by Silent Decay – a mysterious ailment causing a slow deterioration of vitality, often misdiagnosed and challenging to detect in its early stages.]
The information solidified Caelum's resolve to protect this town and its inhabitants, already burdened with struggles beyond the impending attack.
Thomas's voice brought Caelum's attention back to the present. "Why have you come to me?" he asked, his tone wary but not unkind.
Caelum met Thomas's gaze squarely, projecting both respect and urgency. "We need information about Lighthaven's sewer system. Specifically, where does the sewer waste go?"
Thomas's expression shifted from suspicion to understanding. "The sewers... they empty into the river, but there are multiple outlets, some hidden, some forgotten. Why do you ask?"
Caelum exchanged a quick glance with Elara, who stood silently by his side, her expression serious. "We believe the attack might involve more than just a frontal assault. The sewers could be a potential pathway for an ambush or an infiltration."
Thomas's brow furrowed in thought. "The sewers are a maze. Most avoid them, but I've worked there. If someone knew their way, they could navigate to key points under the town."
Elara's voice was soft but firm. "Could you show us a map or guide us to these points?"
Thomas hesitated, his eyes flickering to the children and then to the sick woman. "I can draw you a map. It won't be perfect, but it'll give you an idea. But I can't leave my family."
Caelum nodded in understanding. "A map will be enough. We'll take it from there."
As Thomas went to fetch materials for the map, Caelum turned to Lily. "Thank you for bringing us here."
Lily, who had been stealing glances at Caelum, blushed slightly and nodded. "I just want to help, however I can."
Thomas returned with parchment and charcoal and began sketching the sewer layout. His hands moved with practiced ease, lines and symbols taking shape to form a rough but informative map.
Caelum opened his system inventory, his fingers sifting through the various items he had collected over his journey. Among them were Firebloom Petals, known for their fiery nature and often used in alchemical concoctions for heat resistance. He pulled them out and checked their description: [Fiery nature. Can be used in alchemical concoctions for heat resistance. Can boost lifeforce.] With a decisive movement, he crushed them in his hand, drawing a curious glance from Elara, Lily, and the children.
He walked to the fireplace and sprinkled the powdered petals over the fire. Instantly, the blazing red flames took on a vibrant green and golden hue. The heat intensified, yet it wasn't scorching; instead, it exuded a comforting warmth. Turning to Thomas, Caelum spoke with confidence, "Your wife has Silent Decay. A sneaky illness that is hard to catch but easy to cure. This will help her, but it is not the cure. See a healer and tell them the name of the illness."
Thomas, initially shocked, watched in amazement as Sarah's complexion began to regain a rosy hue. His eyes teared up with gratitude, and he approached Caelum, his voice thick with emotion. "Thank you!" he said profusely.
Caelum simply nodded, a hint of satisfaction in his eyes as he turned away. Lily stepped closer to him and Elara, holding the map Thomas had drawn. "Let me come with you," she said, her voice tinged with determination.
Caelum shook his head firmly. "No! It is dangerous."
Lily smiled wryly, her eyes displaying a hint of stubbornness. "You need to know the town to find these entrances, and you don't know it as well as I do."
"It's still dangerous," Caelum reiterated, his tone indicating no room for negotiation.
Lily's smile softened, and there was a touch of admiration in her eyes. "I trust you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
The moment was interrupted by Elara's pragmatic tone. "Caelum, she might be right. We don't know the town, and time is against us."
Caelum weighed the situation, his strategic mind analyzing every possible outcome. After a moment of contemplative silence, he gave a reluctant nod. "Fine. But stay close and do exactly as I say."
Lily's face brightened with a mixture of excitement and resolve. Thomas, still by Sarah's side, gave them a nod of approval, his eyes conveying a silent gratitude that went beyond words.
They stepped out into the chilly night, the map securely in Caelum's hands. The streets of Lighthaven were eerily quiet, a stark contrast to the chaos unfolding at the riverfront. Caelum led the way, his senses heightened, ready for any sign of danger. Elara followed closely, her hand resting on her dagger, while Lily, with a newfound sense of purpose, guided them through the town's less-traveled paths.
Lily, who walked beside them, occasionally pointed out landmarks and shortcuts, her knowledge of the town proving invaluable. She spoke in hushed tones, her youthful enthusiasm tempered by the gravity of their mission.
As they approached a secluded area near the town's outskirts, Caelum's keen eyes spotted a hidden entrance to the sewer system. It was barely noticeable, covered by overgrown vegetation and shadowed by the town's structures.
"This is it," Lily whispered, pointing to the concealed entrance.
Caelum inspected the area, his instincts on full alert. "Stay behind me," he instructed, his hand instinctively reaching for his revolver. The entrance was narrow and dark, leading down into the unknown depths of the sewer system.
Elara nodded, her grip on her dagger tightening. She knew the dangers that lay ahead, but her resolve was as strong as ever. Beside her, Lily's expression was a mix of fear and determination, a reflection of her willingness to face the unknown for the sake of her town.
They descended into the dark labyrinth of the sewers, the dank air filled with the musty scent of decay and neglect. The narrow passageways twisted and turned, creating a disorienting maze beneath the town's surface.
Caelum led the way through the dimly-lit sewer tunnels, his senses attuned to every sound and shadow. The musty air was thick, the only light coming from a small lantern Elara carried. The path was narrow and damp, the sound of their footsteps echoing off the ancient stone walls.
Lily, trailing slightly behind, was a constant presence, her knowledge of Lighthaven proving invaluable as she guided them through the labyrinthine network. Despite the fear that clung to the air, her determination was evident, fueled by a fierce loyalty to her town.