Path to Villainy: An NPC Kobold's Tale by S.L. Rowland

Author:S.L. Rowland [Rowland, S.L.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2020-08-16T22:00:00+00:00

Witt’s heart pounded when Hux gave the signal that the caravan was approaching. A chill crept across his shoulders, and the moon cast a silver glow over the covered wagon. Two large oxen pulled the massive caravan, and a gnome sat at the front holding the reins. He looked relaxed as they made their approach. There was no way to tell how many heroes hid behind the canvas covering.

From where Witt stood, he could see Hux and Zirn hiding in the depths of the bushes. His darkvision worked great in the moonlight. Olah was safe at the far end with her boar. She had served her purpose and there was no need to risk her life. The upcoming destruction would be best left to the professionals.

As the caravan entered the copse, Witt stepped from the trees and took his position in the center of the road. He strummed his lute and the strings glowed a vibrant white.

The gnome pulled on the reins, bringing the caravan to a stop. The oxen snorted and pawed at the earth for the sudden inconvenience.

“Out of the way, kobold!” the gnome shouted in a squeaky voice.

Witt took a slight bow. “As you wish. But could I interest you in a buff for your journey? Perhaps one to make your travels quicker?”

“What’s going on out there?” a female voice called from inside the caravan. Witt recognized the voice as the elf from earlier in the day.

The gnome peeled back the cloth flap to the inside of the caravan. “There’s a kobold out here blocking the way. He says he wants to give us a buff to help us travel faster.”

“This has been a miserable journey,” a gruff voice answered from inside. “Pay him whatever he wants. I didn’t sign up for a road trip. I’m ready for the adventuring.”

The gnome released the canvas flap and turned to Witt. “How much for the buff?”

“For a great band of heroes like you? No charge.” Witt smiled, the icy patch on his neck pulsing with ill intent.

“Very well. Get on with it.” The gnome placed the reins in his lap and sat back.

Witt strummed the lute again and it flared with white energy as he began to sing Song of Silence. With each note, the lute grew brighter as Witt’s words gained power.

“The world was dark and full of terror

for those who lived in the dragon era.

Blue, red, silver, and white,

no prey could hope to escape their might.

They burned castles and farms to the ground,

destroying families and razing towns.

And now the time has come again

for all to fear the dragon kin…”

As Witt continued to sing, the canvas flap parted and Razul climbed into the front of the wagon. In a fluid motion, he grabbed the gnome by the head and brought his dagger across his throat. Blood poured onto the gnome’s tunic, soaking it a dark red while Razul muffled the gnome’s screams. Just as quickly as he appeared, Razul vanished, letting the body slump over and leaving only a shadowy trail in his wake.

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