Percival and Logue were slowly threading through the Earthen Furnace. Making careful steps to not burn themselves… or worse, fall into the river of lava to meet their certain death. The route was clear, no monsters ahead. Logue’s Bat would certainly let them know of the dangers ahead. But so far everything seemed calm, well… as calm as a literal hell can be.

- Is it your first time in the furnace? - Logue asked casually.

- Yes. Stories didn’t lie. It really is a hell of a place.

- One day you’ll know this place like the back of your hand. You’ll see. 

- Maybe… but so far I’m glad I decided to venture here with someone more experienced. 

They exchanged smiles and continued down the path. It was leading to a crevice in a wall, at first glance it didn’t really look like a continuation of the road. But Logue was sure it was the right way. They just had to squeeze in a little. 

- Just be careful to not touch the wall, you might burn yours~

The Courser didn’t finish his sentence. He perked his ears, readied himself for incoming danger. They heard a rhythmic sound of steps coming their way, from the direction they came from. It sounded familiar… it sounded like a Courser’s beat of hooves. But nevertheless, they were ready when the stranger appeared from around the corner.

It was actually Percival who jumped first, baring his teeth and swinging his front legs at the intruder, before even checking *what* it was.

- AAAAAHH!! WHAT THE HECK IS WRONG WITH YOU?! - two Coursers smashed their heads together, both falling back. 

It was Rocky, the seal bay Puck. 

- What are you doing?! Sneaking up on us?! - Percy yelled at the careless ‘friend’.

- Do you know him? - Logue asked from the back.

- Sadly I do… Johnny introduced us - The Heraldic collected himself from the ground.

- Oh boy, OH BOY. I’m so glad I found you here! - Rocky was clearly excited to see them - I recognized your pink ass in the distance!

Percival glared at him before asking:

- What do you want? We’re busy.

- Can I go with you? 

- What?! No. No no no no.

- Why not? 

- Because you’re careless. And I value my life. 

Logue was standing there in silence, listening. When he finally spoke he turned to Rocky:

- You’re lost, aren’t you?

- Me? Lost? Are you out of your mind? Of course not - somehow both Logue and Percival didn’t believe him.

- You can go with us - Logue stated - I won’t leave you here - and with that the mercenary turned around and continued their journey.

- You wanted to skimp on hiring a mercenary - Percy snarled - That’s too bad. You’re paying for Logue now.