The attack came a few nights later. Elliot was asleep in the dormitory when the sound of shouting and clashing steel jolted him awake. He grabbed his dagger and rushed to the window, his heart pounding as he saw a group of cloaked figures storming the guild hall.

  “They’re here!” someone shouted. “Defend the guild!”

  Elliot didn’t hesitate. He threw on his gear and ran downstairs, joining the other adventurers as they fought to repel the invaders. The guild hall was chaos, with spells flying, swords clashing, and the air filled with the sounds of battle.

  Elliot spotted Kael near the entrance, firing arrows into the crowd of attackers. “Elliot! Over here!” Kael shouted.

  Elliot dodged a swinging blade and made his way to Kael’s side. “What’s the plan?”

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  “We need to protect the artifact vault,” Kael said. “If they get their hands on those pieces, we’re all in trouble.”

  Elliot nodded, and the two of them fought their way to the vault. The door was already open, and a group of cloaked figures was inside, rummaging through the chests.

  “Stop them!” Kael shouted, firing an arrow that struck one of the intruders in the shoulder.

  Elliot charged forward, his dagger flashing as he engaged one of the attackers. The fight was intense, but Elliot’s training paid off. He managed to disarm his opponent and knock him to the ground, though he took a few hits in the process.

  By the time the guild’s defenders had driven off the attackers, the vault was a mess, but the artifacts were still secure. Elliot leaned against the wall, breathing heavily as the adrenaline began to fade.

  “You okay?” Kael asked, clapping him on the shoulder.

  “Yeah,” Elliot said, wincing as he touched a bruise on his side. “But I think I’m starting to understand why you said this wouldn’t be easy.”

  Kael grinned. “Welcome to the big leagues, rookie.”