Chapter Text
The day had arrived.
When Maria woke up that morning, she looked out the window to find a cloudy sky, with a fair amount of snow still covering the ground and rooftops. Thankfully, the weather otherwise looked clear: no rain, snow or wind, which would’ve impeded or outright delayed their travel. But that also meant that she had no time to waste. She might not have to depart until sundown, but there was still much to do.
Firstly, Maria set about ensuring that all she had packed was still in place. She couldn’t say it was much; ammunition, a personal canteen of water and provisions of preserved meat, dried fruit and flour. Keeping her knights well-fed on this mission was always going to be a challenge, as they could usually hunt or scavenge for food if their provisions ran low, but such a thing was not going to be possible in the labyrinths. The underground environment did not allow for traditional agriculture and whatever creatures were to be found down there were unlikely to be suitable for eating. As such, they could only stay there for as long as their food supply allowed.
Of course, that was not all that she would be bringing with her.
Behind a decorative room divider on the far side of her quarters was an area committed to her equipment. Here, one could find a chest in which she kept her decorative garb and a chest-high wooden drawer, upon which stood a small display stand, holding a double-edged weapon; on one end, a traditional saber and on the other, a dagger.
After quickly putting on her uniform, Maria carefully took her weapon of the display and carefully held it in her gloved hands. This was the Rakuyo, a weapon that was reserved for only the highest-ranking knights. But this one, in particular, was a family heirloom, once belonging to her late grandfather and his own ancestors before him. She remembered being fascinated by it as a young girl, watching as her grandfather carefully maintained it’s glistening shine, even though by that point it had not seen combat for decades.
Maria couldn’t help but smile as she looked down at the still stainless steel. Her grandfather had been the first to indulge her silly little fantasies in her youth, teaching her how to ride her first pony when she was little more than seven years old. That soon graduated into teaching her to fence, in secret of course, away from the ever-protective gaze of her mother. At the time, Maria simply thought saw these gestures as fun activities to pass the time, but she eventually discovered that this was far from the case. Her grandfather had taken notice of her enthusiasm for all things chivalrous and saw a goldmine of potential. She finally discovered the scope of his plans when he used his high standing in the royal court to grant her the chance to display her acquired skill in a contest for aspiring knights, one that she ended up handily winning.
That all seemed so long ago now. Before she knew it, her grandfather had passed away, leaving to her his highly cherished weapon; by then, she had more than earned the right to use it. To this very day, Maria continued to ensure it remained in pristine condition, taking time every day to clean and maintain it at her workstation. After all that he had done for her, it was the least she could do.
Her thoughts were suddenly interrupted by a knock on her door, which quickly reminded her of the task at hand.
“Who is it?” She called out, even if she had a good idea of who it could be.
“Your substitute, I suppose.” Was the reply, making Maria roll her eyes and smile.
“The door is open, Adrian.” She told her brother, who promptly entered her quarters. “Come to check on me, have you?” Maria asked as she set about putting on the holster for her firearm, known simply as Evelyn.
“And to tell you to hurry along, on behalf of your men, of course.” Adrian replied.
“Really - my men? I think we both know most of them haven’t even woken up yet.” She pointed out. Just one task of many she had to complete before they could depart.
“And why do you think I came so early?” Adrian asked.
“I don’t know. Perhaps you’re eager to be rid of me.” Maria replied, which elicited a small chuckle from him.
“Come now, you presume too much.” Adrian replied, leading to a brief period of silence where Maria finally managed to holster her pistol.
“Am I right to presume that you’ve begun your duties?” She turned around and asked him, more seriously this time.
“Indeed. My first and utmost responsibility is ensuring that you and your knights are well prepared for your impending journey. Oh, but you already knew that.” Of course, she knew. It was her responsibility.
“Yes. And I also know that you more than anyone is capable of fulfilling it.” She told her brother, who didn’t seem to take much solace from her words.
“But for how long, I wonder.” Maria knit her brow, finding it difficult to think of an appropriate response.
“Do not concern yourself with such things. Simply focus on the task at hand.” She advised him, though this didn’t seem to better matters.
“Easier said than done.” Maria then went up to him and placed her hands on his shoulders.
“I know. But if you can be certain of anything, let it be that I will return, one way or another.” She smiled at Adrian, hoping that her doing so would help him accept her words. Seconds of silence passed and, in the end, her brother’s only acknowledgement of what she had said was a simple, half-hearted nod.
The two siblings then went on to share a quiet, comforting embrace. As she held her twin brother in her arms, the smile that Maria had been wearing promptly vanished. The truth was, she couldn’t be certain of anything; whether she would find anything on this expedition or even whether she would return from it alive. For all she knew, this could be the very last time she would see Adrian, and the castle they called home.
But even so, she was a knight – both of them were. They accepted that their lives could be forfeit at any moment, yet did not let such fears impede their duty.
…
Elsewhere.
Laurence had never been someone who always had dinner, at least not a proper one. There was almost always something that he had to focus his energy on, tasks that would oftentimes last him long into the night, until the wax of his candles had all but melted away. But occasionally, he was able to indulge himself in a freshly cooked meal for himself that he could enjoy as he both unwinded from the day’s work and prepared for the work to come tomorrow. Today’s dinner was especially hearty; bread rolls, orange marmalade, a pair of hard-boiled eggs, a plate of salami and cheese, topped off with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Yet in spite of the small feast he had prepared and the breathtaking sunset he witnessed as he ate, the professor was hardly in a rosy mood.
Part of it was due to the absence of his usual dining companion. Regardless of how busy he was, he made sure to prepare something for Nora to eat, assuming some unfortunate rodent didn’t come along and end up satiating her for him. At this time, she’d usually be resting by the window sill and enjoying the evening light. But of course, she wasn’t there this evening; she was at Master Willem’s estate, where she was no doubt doing something similar.
But it wasn’t just Nora’s absence that weighed down on Laurence, for today was the last time he would be able to enjoy this routine of his for the foreseeable future. Any meal he would have over the next several days would have to be shared with dozens of his fellow scholars, meals that were unlikely to contain foods he had prepared for himself. What was for certain, however, was that Laurence would be unable to see the sunrise, or indeed, the sky from which it shined. They were going deep underground, where no natural light could reach. When or if he would be able to look up and see the sun shining overhead, he did not know, which made having this last, fleeting moment of normalcy seem almost essential.
Once his dinner had concluded, Laurence had to wait at least a few hours before his duties would be required, which would be primarily focused on last-minute preparations for their journey. The first thing he did was make sure his own packing was complete. He didn’t take much with him; his spectacles, the odd change of clothes, a canteen of water and his personal journal, within which he would document whatever important information he could find. Most of the necessary supplies – things like food and shelter – had been provided by the university, but only as much as his company could reasonably carry themselves. And with their limited capacity, they couldn’t afford to leave anything behind, which was what Laurence would have to ensure.
But first, he had to kill some time, which he decided to do by treating himself to a warm bath – another luxury that he was unlikely to experience for a while -followed by a walk, which took him past most of Byrgenwerth College. They didn’t have a campus, per se; instead, the various buildings in which its faculty and students studied, lectured and socialized were scattered throughout Yharnam. Aside from its numerous lecture halls, Byrgenwerth boasted several libraries, a theater hall, a museum and even a botanical garden, all of which were usually open for public use as well. The contribution that the institution had made to the city over the years could not be understated.
Usually, the streets of Yharnam would be bustling with students, but as Laurence walked along the street, nary a soul could be seen bearing the college’s uniform. The reason for that was simple; it was the summer and most of the faculty was now more focused on research rather than teaching. There was still the odd class, of course, but they were typically led by more junior professors, especially now that a good number of the senior faculty was embarking on the very mission Laurence was leading.
Heaving a heavy sigh, the professor soaked in the familiar sights of Yharnam’s densely packed buildings, the gothic architecture rising high overhead. It was fairly easy to get lost here, but Laurence had grown very familiar with it over the years. To most, Byrgenwerth was a place of learning – a place to work and further your understanding of the world. But to Laurence, it wasn’t just that.
It was his home.
In time, Laurence would make his way to the college’s main building, located within Central Yharnam. As he approached, he could see a few horse drawn carriages already stationed in front of it, as well as a gathering of people standing close to the entrance. But these weren’t his scholars, but rather simple workers from the university’s equestrian center. And as he got closer, the professor could make out one, noticeably commanding voice.
“Alright, listen up. As you’re all aware, our scholars are going to be departing soon and its our responsibility to ensure that all of their provisions are met. Each of you has a task. These wagons you see before you are intended to transport not only them, but their supplies and it is our responsibility to ensure that these supplies meet the provided requirements. All that we need is meant to be found inside this building, but do not see that as an excuse to rush your tasks – doing so can potentially endanger the travelling scholars. Now get to work, all of you!”
This address was given by the stablemaster, which was concluded by the time Laurence reached the entrance to the center. The master’s attention appeared to be squarely on his workers at the moment, which prompted the professor to try and get his attention.
“Good evening, Ludwig.” Upon hearing this, the stablemaster turned to look at him and warmly smiled at him.
“Ah, good evening, Professor. Here to conduct your inspection?” Ludwig asked as he turned fully around.
“I haven’t arrived too early, have I?”
“Oh, not at all. It’s much better to know whether we missed something sooner rather than later. My men will need a little time until they’re ready for inspection, but in the mean time, I can show you what we’re working with, if you so wish.” Ludwig motioned to the various carriages that he had assembled.
“By all means.” Said Laurence.
“Very well. And let me just say, you’ve put me through a lot of trouble for such a short journey.” Ludwig joked as they started walking, making the professor crack a smile.
“My apologies, but I did not set the requirements.” He reminded him.
“I know, I know. But in any case, we’ve done our utmost to meet them.” Ludwig gestured towards three stagecoaches that made up the front and middle of the procession, leading him towards them. “These are reserved for you and your party - each one can carry about six people, including two at the front. Who goes where doesn’t matter much, but I presume you’ll want the front seat in the front carriage.” The stablemaster climbed up into the vehicle as he said all this.
“Not exactly, but I’m sure everyone will expect me to be there.” Laurence replied.
“Yes, I’m sure.” He gestured down at the cushioned seat. “Here it is. Don’t worry, I made sure it was made especially clean just for you.” It was pretty clear that the stablemaster was teasing him.
“How kind of you, Ludwig.” He replied, which made him chuckle to himself.
“Don’t you mention it.” He said as he exited the stagecoach, after which Laurence’s attention turned to a wagon at the very end of the caravan.
“That one is meant for our supplies, I presume?” Laurence said as he motioned towards it.
“Indeed, it is. Normally, we’d keep everything in trunks and the like until their contents are need, but as you probably guessed that simply isn’t a possibility for where you’re going. So in lieu of that, everything’s going to have to go in knapsacks of varying size; when your fellows arrive, I’ll leave it to you to decide how the weight is distributed.”
“I’m sure they’ll be thrilled about that.” Laurence jested.
“Yes, it is an unfortunate, but necessary component of your mission. This sort of labor is more suited for a pack horse, but the underground is simply no place for them.” Ludwig was right, of course. Leading them underground was one thing, but ensuring even one of them survived down there would end up costing them more supplies than they would use on five men.
“Though, from what I hear, your destination is no place for men either.” Ludwig then added on.
“So, I’ve been told.” The professor said.
“And yet, here you are regardless. That says something.” The stablemaster pointed out, though Laurence could only scoff.
“Come now, it’s not like I’m going alone.” He said in reply.
“Indeed. Each of your followers show no small degree of courage by agreeing to partake in this mission, but agreeing to lead it? Well, that’s a whole other matter.” It was clear what Ludwig was insinuating and Laurence couldn’t say that he agreed with it.
“Someone has to.” Was all he said in response.
“But not everyone can. You would do well to remember that.”
Laurence found that he had no retort, because once again, Ludwig was right, at least in a way. Anyone could at least attempt to lead, but only a few could do so exceptionally. Pericles, Charlemagne, even someone like Martin Luther; their names had been inscribed into the fabric of history not only because they had a vision, but because they had the will to see that vision through.
As the silence lingered, Laurence suddenly made out the sound of galloping hooves. At first, he thought that their Cainhurst guards had arrived ahead of schedule, but it soon became clear that only a single rider was approaching. Both he and Ludwig turned towards the approaching horse, which slowed down to a trot before coming to a full stop a few steps away from them, with its rider looking down at them.
“Good evening, gentlemen.” He greeted them, still seated in his saddle.
“Gehrman.” Laurence greeted him. “You’re early.”
“I haven’t caught you at a bad time, have I? It’s just that I promised our stablemaster that I would return Baldric here before we left.” The professor could only look on in stunned silence as Ludwig nodded in understanding and made his way over to Gehrman.
“Much obliged. I take this to mean you’re finished running your ‘errands’?” Ludwig asked him.
“Indeed.” Gehrman disembarked. “And I must thank you for letting me borrow him. He’s a fine horse, but then again, there was never any doubt of that.”
“Whatever you say, Gehrman. Hitch him to one of the carriages for now and I’ll take him back to the stables after we’re finished here.” Ludwig then said.
“Of course.” Taking Baldric by his reigns, Gehrman led him over to the supply court in order to fasten him to it.
“And speaking of which, I should probably go and check on my men. Do excuse me for a moment.” Ludwig said after turning to Laurence, who was still trying to discern the all too casual interaction he had just witnessed.
“Oh, yes. Go right ahead.” Ludwig nodded his head and made his way over to the entrance of the main building before opening the door and disappearing inside, leaving the professor alone with the new arrival.
“Is everything alright, Master Laurence? You seem…perturbed.” Gehrman said to get his attention.
“I’m fine.” He assured him, briefly pausing before he spoke again. “I see you and Ludwig have already gotten acquainted.” Gehrman chuckled.
“Oh, me and your stablemaster go back a long way. Though, I was not aware that you and I shared a mutual friend. Perhaps we could’ve been properly introduced sooner.” He said as he finished hitching Baldric to the carriage and fully turned his attention to him.
“Perhaps so. Unfortunately, he made no mention of you.” This had been true for as long as Ludwig had been working in Byrgenwerth’s stables, which was as long as Laurence could remember.
But this simply brought up more questions. Primarily, how was it that Ludwig knew Gehrman, and for how long? He remembered Master Willem saying that his ‘acquaintance’ had been a part of Byrgenwerth’s mission for a long time; had he been here all along and Laurence had somehow never known?
Questions for later, Laurence decided.
“But in any case, I trust that you are well-rested?” The professor asked him.
“Oh, I’m as well as could be, young master. Truth be told, I’ve been rather looking forward to get an opportunity like this again.” This reminded him of a question that went unanswered during their last meaning.
“I recall Master Willem saying you’ve been aiding Byrgenwerth for a very long time. Just how many of these exhibitions have you gone on?” He questioned.
“Oh, too many to count. Believe it or not, I was partaking in them when your headmaster himself was still able to do so.” Laurence couldn’t say that he was too surprised to hear this. It was almost certain that Gehrman and Master Willem’s relationship stemmed from their shared research – research that the latter had been conducting for decades even before Laurence had first come to study under him. Still, that would mean that Gehrman had gone at least several dozen ventures before this one.
“Hm, I see. Then you must know them well. What can we expect?”
“That is rather difficult to say. Each time I have ventured there, hardly anything appeared the same as before, even when we seemingly started from the same point. Though, I suppose that’s why they call them ‘labyrinths’.” He paused to smile to himself before continuing.
“That being said, each journey was consistent in certain regards. For one, it would seem that the labyrinths themselves are just as oppressive as those that inhabit them, at least to some.” This caught Laurence’s attention.
“What do you mean?” “Well, let me put it this way. Does being virtually trapped underground for days on end sound pleasant to you?” He imagined this wouldn’t be a difficult question for anyone to answer.
“I cannot say that it does.” Laurence said, prompting Gehrman to continue.
“And that is perhaps the biggest danger that our destination presents. Even the strongest wills could crumble under that sort of pressure, which is exactly why one should never travel there alone. When you’re down there, your scholars will need each-other – and you – just as much as they need someone to protect them from harm.”
Clearly, Gehrman did not mean to mince words, not that he needed to. Laurence wasn’t naïve; he’d known from the beginning that this quest he was embarking on was not going to be an easy one, as did everyone who’d agreed to embark with him. And much like a captain navigating uncharted waters, it was his duty not only to guide his team through whatever danger awaited them, but also to ensure they were prepared to face these dangers head on. Only time would tell how well suited he was for such a task.
“On that note, I have something for you.” Upon saying this, Gehrman approached him and reached into his pack to take out a fairly small object, which upon closer inspection, Laurence identified as a sheathed dagger.
“Go on. Take it.” Laurence couldn’t bring himself to comply with Gehrman’s request, finding himself staring down at the weapon with a deep uncertainty.
“I’m sorry, Gehrman, but I can’t. I’ve never even held a blade such as this before.” He told him.
“Yes, I know. You are a man of healing and this is a tool primarily used to bring harm onto others. But there comes a time when someone or something intends to bring harm onto you and in a time like that, you are your own best hope for your survival. And make no mistake, young master. Where we’re going, you will need to fight to survive. And survive, you shall.”
Gehrman continued to present the dagger to him, waiting for Laurence to accept it. And eventually, he did, taking the weapon in his hand before carefully removing it from his sheath. He didn’t need to be a blacksmith to see that the blade was expertly crafted, with a wooden handle and a string of what appeared to be runes running along its center, engraved into its dark and unfamiliar metal.
“Where did you get this?” He asked Gehrman.
“I can only tell you where I got the materials for it, but I’m afraid that’s something of a trade secret.” Laurence looked up at him in surprise.
“You made this?” Gehrman gave him a rather proud nod.
“Indeed. I did not have as much time as I would’ve liked, but I’d say it came out well enough nevertheless.” The professor looked back down at the weapon, which he now knew had been handcrafted just for him.
“I don’t know what to say.” “Nor do you need to. Master Willem has asked me to ensure your safety and this is but one step towards that goal.” He motioned to the dagger as he said this, which prompted Laurence to look down at it once again.
What could he even do with this, he wondered. He wasn’t even sure if he was gripping it properly, much less whether he could use it to repel an attacker. Though at the same time, he supposed that he was better off having it than not; at the very least, he would not be completely defenseless.
But even so, Gehrman had said himself that the foes that awaited them were most likely not going to be repelled with a simple dagger, which was why Master Willem had brought him onboard to begin with. He must have a fair bit of faith in the man in order to assign him to such a task, the professor thought to himself. But Laurence still wasn’t sure just what Gehrman was supposed to be. Was he a mercenary? A soldier? He and Laurence’s master seemed quite familiar with each other from what he remembered, but how had that come to be?
And above all, how would he be compared to their official protectors?
….