Chapter 2: Secrets Beneath the Castle
Thinking quickly, Kel struggled to haul all of her belongings through the door that had miraculously appeared when she pushed the knothole as instructed in the note. Ensuring that her things were indeed gone from her former quarters, she rehung the picture and replaced the leg of the bed—minus the letter—to restore the room's appearance. Once satisfied, she locked the door and, for all outward appearances, disappeared from the face of the Kingdom of Tortall.
Inside the hidden chamber, Kel closed the door tightly behind her, watching in awe as the crack in the frame melted seamlessly into the wall. She quickly searched the room she had just entered, discovering a map that detailed her new surroundings. Recalling the note's mention of Sir Alex's journal, she reasoned that the most logical place to keep such an item would be the room marked "Library" on the map.
Navigating the corridors proved daunting, but with frequent references to the map and startled gasps as enchanted torches flared to life, Kel managed to find her way. At last, she arrived before a massive wooden door, its presence imposing yet inviting. Cautiously, she pushed it open and stepped inside, her breath catching at the sight before her.
Towering shelves stretched from floor to ceiling, crammed with books on every imaginable subject. Each section was clearly labeled—volumes on tactics and wars stood alongside books of mage-craft, offering insights for both the gifted and the uninitiated. A grand fireplace dominated the only wall without shelves, and Kel recognized it as sharing the same chimney as her former quarters. A solid oak desk sat before the hearth, its presence commanding the room's center.
Drawn to the desk, Kel sank into the chair and took a deep breath to steady herself. Upon the desk were two sets of journals, their leather bindings bearing neat carvings of years. Selecting the oldest, she opened it to find an inscription:
Alex of Tirragen, 4th Year Page
Journal One
Start Date: 429 HE
Turning the page, she began to read the first journal entry of Alexander of Tirragen.
I discovered a fortress today, one that lies within the bowels of our glorious kingdom. I was practicing thief techniques I overheard a dark-haired boy discussing in the city. Curious, I decided to see if there were any secrets hidden in my room. The boy had mentioned safes concealed behind pictures, so I tested the idea.
Behind the painting of "A Lion's Pride," I found a knothole cleverly disguised as part of the wood. While reaching for it, I lost my balance—me, still awaiting my long-overdue growth spurt—and fell. As I hit the knothole, two parallel lines formed before me, creating a massive, silent door. My curiosity got the better of me, and I stepped through.
What I found defied belief. Room after room stretched before me, scarcely furnished but full of potential. A set of stairs led downward, each landing revealing more wonders: a vast library filled with tomes on every subject imaginable, a small kitchen in need of dusting, and a fully equipped living area. Further exploration uncovered a bedroom, a closet, a bathing area, and even a track for training. The most remarkable discovery was the armory—nearly full and outfitted with training equipment.
All of it was old but functional, waiting to be used. I made a mental note to return and take inventory, particularly in the armory, where the weapons deserved cataloging. However, as I wandered deeper, fatigue caught up with me, and I realized I should head back before being missed. That's when the sinking feeling hit me: I was lost.
To Be Continued...