Mb | Nov 5, 2023 | Reading Time: 3 Min.
In a burial chamber, Will and Ru encounter Stagnate, the god of the undead. Stagnate, not as an echo but as a herald, reveals that he was drawn to the area by the disturbances caused by the undead. He apologizes for the behavior of his former echo and warns Will of a prophecy foretelling his death at the hands of Valacirca, the evil dragon known as the Scythe of the Gods.

Stagnate recounts his previous encounter with Valacirca and describes the dragon’s mercenary nature and lack of noble motive. He advises Will against confronting Valacirca and claims that even the goddess Gracefeel would confirm the threat posed by the dragon.

At this revelation, Ru learns of his ancestor, King Aurvangr of the Iron Mountains, who once bravely wounded Valacirca in battle. Stagnate praises Aurvangr as a true hero, a revelation that fills Ru with pride.

The conversation is interrupted by the dragon’s roar, a tremendous force that drives a forest giant into a frenzy. Will subdues the giant with the help of his power and a spell of clarity, without harming him. The giant, named Gangr, thanks Will and acknowledges that he owes the human hero a debt.

Back in Torch Port, the aftermath of the dragon’s roar is unmistakable. Will and his allies prepare to deal with the chaos left in its wake. Bishop Bagley warns of the danger Valacirca poses not only to Torch Port but to the entire region.

Will wrestles with the decision to face Valacirca, reflecting on his life and the expectations placed upon him as a Paladin of the Far. Outside, he is interrupted by an uproar as the dwarves, led by Grendir, demand to know what Will intends to do about the dragon.

Grendir and the dwarves express their desire to die honorably in battle against Valacirca, continuing a fight from their past. Ru, now called Vindalfr, vows to restore the honor of the dwarves and the mountains of his ancestors.

Will declares his resolve to slay the dragon, and a group forms, including Menel, Reystov, and Ghelreis, who is to lead them. Despite all odds, they set out in pursuit of glory and honor.

As preparations continue, the troubadour Bee arrives, intending to write a legend about the coming battle. She promises to spread the tale so that Will’s story may inspire others.

The episode ends with the divine blessing of Gracefeel, who commands Will to keep his promise and slay the dragon, assuring him of her protection.
This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical support and editorially reviewed before publication.
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