The Black Banners had escorted merchant caravans through three kingdoms, two war zones, and one region where the dead refused to remain buried.
Their leader, Nyra Dane, had expected Max's first dungeon level to be a diversion. Something that took up time while they waited.
Her companions expected less.
Torren Bale, their shield bearer, wanted a warm meal before the caravan departed. Mael Sorren, their mage, had bet the archer that he could complete the level without using a potion. Ysra Darken carried enough healing supplies for a siege, and Fen Daro had spent the walk from the caravan explaining why enchanted forests were only dangerous to people who ignored obvious signs.
Nyra Dane stood beneath the arch leading into Fey Nights while her four companions checked their equipment. All five were far stronger than the inexperienced adventurers who normally entered the forest.
