Day breaks, and rhythmic stomping from above fills the silence. We spoke at length about many things.
"I will show you to the dungeon. You can use it to easily reach the surface."
After some distance, my guide stops. He turns toward the wall, and walks directly into it. Or so it would appear, had he not passed through. Moments later, he returns.
"Come, I will introduce you to the elders."
After traversing a winding path, I accept that I won't be able to navigate these tunnels alone. Some time after, the walls part into a hall. Pale, thin men sit in the far end.
"So you have arrived." A distant voice echoes on the cavern walls.
"I have, Elder. This is the one I told you of. He seeks refuge from the city."
"What need would one such as he have to escape the city?"
"He-"
"He will speak for himself." The elder interrupts.
"I was called to the palace to be honored, Elder. I learned that I would be compelled to worship the city's goddess. This is unacceptable to me, so I sought to escape."
"Doubtless this has something to do with a peculiar god we've been told about." The elders chatter among themselves.
"Very well. You may remain here. But we have a task for you. Go to the Black Crypt and exterminate the cult. You may keep what you find, save one artifact we lost to them. It is already known to your guide."