“A New Development”
Episode 10: Spend It Wisely
April 2, 2025
Standing at the edge of the corridor, Korrin Vale continued onward as the door behind him began to close. In a sharp, whispered tone, Szelden guided him—ushering him to the next trial.
Take this
she said, handing Korrin a mystical silvery coin, etched with the ancient runes of the guild. Spend it wisely
Korrin took the coin and admired its beauty as he listened for more instructions, more clues.
Choose wrong, and you will learn
She held the door open as Korrin entered the puzzle chamber.
As she began to close the door, Szelden whispered her final instruction. Freedom at the cost of just one coin.
The door sealed with a hollow boom, leaving him in silence.
The chamber around him was circular, sealed on all sides. Brass and stone worked together here—old gears nested in the walls, faint vibrations rumbling through the floor. The air was warmer than it should have been—dry, with the faintest scent of smoke. The lighting came from somewhere above, a soft orange glow that shimmered faintly across the dark metal plating.
Jets—small, rounded nozzles—were embedded in the ceiling, the walls, even the floor. Blackened marks surrounded them, residue baked into the stone.
A large mechanical panel jutted from the opposite wall. It was constructed of brass, tangled with rusted pipes, heavy conduit, and misleading cables, humming softly. Four levers were arranged in a wide arc across the face, each marked by a different carved glyph.
One, a triangle, pointed upward. The second showed wavy lines. The third was a perfect circle. And finally—a pentacle, each pressed into the brass with precision.
No explanation. Just common symbols and the slow churn of the unseen machine. The entire floor beneath his feet began to turn
Korrin stepped forward. The levers were waiting. Tossing the coin into the air, he knew he'd need to decide quickly.
Choose wisely
He said aloud, as he reached for the lever panel.