Chapter 4: The Boss’s room
Isaac felt his heartbeat gradually slow down. The euphoria of his discovery was still present, but reality was rapidly taking over. He was still in a dungeon, surrounded by danger.
The sound of hurried footsteps caught his attention. He turned just in time to see the other porter, Elias, come running. The man, in his thirties, was out of breath and stopped a few yards from Isaac, a look of panic on his face.
- Damn it, kid! What's got into you?" he shouted between gulps of air.
Isaac raised an eyebrow, trying to put a name to the face. Then memories of the body's previous owner resurfaced. Elias, another carrier, just as insignificant in the eyes of the awakened, but who was more experienced and always looked after the younger ones.
- I'm fine," replied Isaac, still a little lost in thought.
- Fine?! choked Elias. You almost died, damn it! You're lucky that goblin was half-dead!
Isaac nodded vaguely. He couldn't explain what had just happened. Neither his miraculous dodge, nor the appearance of the floating screen. He preferred to remain evasive.
Before he could say anything, a loud voice cracked in the air.
- DAMN KID!
Isaac and Elias jumped at the same time. A massive, scarred man was striding towards them. It was Grant, the leader of the group of awakened ones leading this expedition. His dark gaze was fixed on Isaac with a chilling intensity.
- What the hell were you doing out here all alone?! barked Grant. You're a fucking porter, kid! You're supposed to follow orders and stay back!