In Rising Tensions, the fragile alliances between the elves, dwarves, and humans are tested. After Keldon’s mysterious injury, Tarian seeks aid and answers from his new allies, only to discover that help comes with its own dangers. An unexpected arrival brings both hope and suspicion, forcing decisions that could reshape or shatter their fledgling alliance. Join me for another chapter of political intrigue, quiet heroism, and the small victories that can alter the course of survival.
This chapter is paired with my original blues piece Creeping, whose slow and deliberate rhythm mirrors the story’s undercurrent of mistrust. The steady pulse of the song echoes the guarded steps of conversation, letting you feel both the weight of diplomacy and the shadow of the hidden threat to their survival.
From the beginning of this series, I’ve shown that this world is dangerous and unpredictable. I chose to bypass the attack on Keldon, instead picking up after he had already been struck down. This story, including bypassing the attack, allowed me to plant seeds of distrust between the three races, a tension that will continue to grow.
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Tarian rushed into the infirmary and seized Keldon’s hand. “What’s his status?”
The doctor wrapped his arms around his pad as he sighed. “The odds aren’t good.”
Tarian’s brow knotted as he shut his eyes. “Spit it out, Dalton.”
With another sigh, Dalton dropped the pad onto the bed and nudged Tarian’s shoulder. “He’s not going to make it.”
“I want to find whatever did this to him.” Tarian rounded the bed and grabbed the doctor’s shirt, pulling him onto his toes. “Caleb, what do we know?”
“Nothing,” Caleb said, pulling Tarian off the doctor. He patted his chest. “Keldon was the only member of his team to survive. And he never told us where they went.” He paused, glancing down at the injured man. “Don’t forget, the elves are the only reason he’s here.”
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Have a wonderful day my friends!