Episode 5.7 - Proposal

Summary

The Road of Shadows

Season 5, Episode 7 – "Proposal"

Date: July 28, 2026
Created by: Mark R. Healy
Podcast Summary by: [Your Name]

---

Episode Overview

In this tense, dialogue-driven episode set in 1984, Daniel Knox and Amber—both fugitives from supernatural entities called Shadows—find themselves at a decisive crossroads. Daniel's mysterious illness and Amber's weakening visions coincide with an unexpected visit from Ryvis, a Shadow of a rival kin, who presents a morally complex deal that could change the course of their pursuit. As secrets unfold about the Shadows' history and motivations, Daniel and Amber must decide whether to cut their losses or press on against mounting odds.

---

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Daniel's Illness and Amber's Weakening Abilities

• Daniel is visibly weakened, struggling even to walk around the block, clinging to his axe (03:00–03:27).
• Amber urges him to rest, noting his deteriorating state after days of attempts to recuperate (03:39–04:07).
• The pair realize Amber’s visions of the "Place of Stone"—a sacred mountain site—are growing dim, likely due to distance or disrupted connections to the ether (04:54–05:32).

2. The Arrival and Proposal of Ryvis

• Ryvis enters the motel room without hostility and requests a civil conversation, warning time is short as the authorities may be alerted to his presence (06:09–07:10).
• Ryvis explains that he's from a different kin than Dragisa and is bound by a mission:
  • To kill Daniel and Amber or, failing that, prevent them from returning to the sacred mountain, Sunder (08:44–10:52).
• Amber's role as a "Seeker"—someone able to navigate the ether and interact with hidden knowledge—makes her especially valuable and dangerous to Dragisa's kin (11:15–11:25).

Notable Quote:

"Let me lay out my proposal in the clearest terms possible. I came to prevent a fight. If the three of us engage in the thing that Dragisa wants most, a battle to the death, it will be a very bad outcome for all of us."
– Ryvis (13:14)

3. The Place of Stone and the Shadows’ Retreat

• Ryvis reveals Dragisa's kin is actively abandoning their sanctuary, intent on dismantling the Place of Stone so Amber cannot access its knowledge (12:11–12:36).
• This retreat is framed as a major victory for Daniel and Amber, despite the risk of losing all momentum if they do not act in time (12:39–12:56).

4. Ryvis’s Motives and the Shadow Wars

• Ryvis clarifies he hates Dragisa’s kin and is only cooperating to secure the release of his brother, Kurellen, who was captured (10:11–10:36).
• He underscores the centuries-long feud between kin, recounting Dragisa’s ancestors' exile from a foreign land and re-establishment in the U.S., which led to their current dominance (17:18–19:35).

Notable Quote:

"Their ship was battered by storms for weeks, her tall white sails torn to shreds. But they persevered... and finally arrived here on the shores of this land."
– Ryvis (18:10)

5. The Deal: Blood, Exile, and Ultimatums

• Ryvis proposes a delayed pursuit:
  • Daniel and Amber leave Silverton and give a vial of Amber's blood, enabling him to free his brother without further conflict (14:28–15:32).
  • The blood is wanted due to Amber’s abilities both as a Seeker and for her “malignant touch”—the power to injure Shadows with her bare hands (15:50–16:12).
• Daniel and Amber are skeptical, suspecting a trick by Dragisa (16:29).

Notable Quotes:

"You would have to face me in a fight you know you cannot win."
– Ryvis (15:06)

"You'd let us leave, just like that?"
– Amber (15:14)

• Ryvis’s refusal to leave is rooted in fear of exile and death; his loyalty is to his kin, not Dragisa (20:00–21:17).

6. Post-Encounter Deliberations – Daniel & Amber

• Daniel wakes after resting, finding Amber brooding over Ryvis’s offer (24:48–25:23).
• They debate the two paths: fleeing (and forfeiting their lead on Dragisa) or risking a direct confrontation (25:44–26:44).
• Amber contemplates attempting to reason with Ryvis, but both doubt this will work; force may be necessary, despite Daniel’s weakened state (26:47–27:39).
• Sensing time is running out as the Shadows retreat, Amber is ready to act immediately (28:04–28:39).

Notable Quote:

"Every minute I feel the place of stone slipping further from my reach. As far as I'm concerned, we have to act now. Either we pack up our shit and get the hell out of Dodge, or we go back to the mountain. There's no point in waiting."
– Amber (28:23)

7. The Decision

• After weighing options, Daniel insists they must return to the mountain and press onward, despite the danger (29:01–29:37).
• The episode closes with renewed determination and urgency.

Notable Quote:

"I'll be fine. In fact, I guarantee that one way or another, I'm going to find a way to get us up that mountain. And nothing's going to stand in my way."
– Daniel (29:40)

---

Timestamps for Key Segments

| Timestamp | Segment |
|-----------|---------| | 02:53–04:54 | Daniel and Amber's health and vision issues | | 06:09–08:29 | Ryvis's entrance and intentions | | 10:07–12:36 | Ryvis reveals his mission and Shadows’ sanctuary details | | 13:14–14:47 | Ryvis's deal and warnings | | 17:18–19:35 | Shadows’ history and Shadow wars | | 24:48–25:44 | Daniel and Amber’s deliberation post-encounter | | 28:23–29:37 | Final decision and renewed resolve |

---

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• “I must say, you seemed quite confused during our last meeting.” – Ryvis (08:49)
• “You know its name. Impressive. They told me you were a Seeker, but I didn't realize your reach was that extensive.” – Ryvis (11:15)
• “A truly hideous affliction, but impressive.” – Ryvis, on Amber's ability to hurt Shadows (16:12)
• “I can't back off now. We'd lose everything we fought for all these months.” – Daniel (29:30)
• “If you come looking for me, I will do what I must… Whatever the cost.” – Ryvis (22:23–22:48)

---

Tone and Language

The episode maintains an atmosphere of fatigue, suspicion, desperation, and simmering animosity. Dialogues are brisk, laced with sarcasm, dry humor, and moments of raw honesty, particularly in confrontations. The tension escalates as practical choices give way to existential stakes.

---

Summary and Takeaways

Episode 5.7, "Proposal," pivots 'The Road of Shadows' towards a reckoning—personally for Daniel, physically weakened but resolute; spiritually for Amber, whose link to the ether is failing; and strategically for both, confronted by Ryvis's desperate, morally gray proposition. The revelation of deep-seated divisions among the Shadows adds richness to the mythology, while hard choices set up an imminent confrontation.

Listeners are left on a knife’s edge—will Daniel and Amber choose safety, or risk everything to pursue the haunting secrets at Sunder's peak?

Transcript

[Amber]

Thanks for supporting the Fable and Folly Network. Here's another show we know you'll love.

[Emergency Broadcast System Announcer]

This is the Emergency Broadcast System. A ballistic missile threat has been detected inbound to your area.

[Podcast Narrator]

Inspired by the real life false alarm that terrified Hawaii in 2018, incoming is a thrilling and hilarious cinematic podcast that explores how people react in their most critical hour.

[Ryvis]

Are you not hearing me?

[Chevrolet Advertiser]

There are missiles headed here right now.

[Amber]

Look, I just. I just want to be with you.

[Podcast Narrator]

Featuring incredible performances from Tracy Letts, Mary Lou Henner, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Paul Adelstein, and many, many others.

[Amber]

Now there's going to be them that live and them that don't.

[Podcast Narrator]

You're making a big mistake.

[Amber]

Is this all my blood?

[Podcast Narrator]

Maybe you're the leader of a doomsday cult. Or you're a country superstar in 1954. Or a gangster in witness protection. The question remains the same. What would you do if you only had 20 minutes until the missiles landed?

[Emergency Broadcast System Announcer]

This is not a test.

[Podcast Narrator]

What would you do with your last few minutes on Earth? Subscribe to Incoming now before it's too late.

[Progressive Insurance Advertiser]

This episode is brought to you by Progressive Insurance. Insurance isn't one size fits all. That's why drivers have enjoyed Progressives Name youe Price Tool for years. Now, with the Name youe Price Tool, you tell them what you want to pay, and they'll show you options that fit your budget. So whether you're picking out your first policy or just looking for something that works better for you and your family, they make it easy to see your options. Visit progressive.com find a rate that works for you with the name your price tool. Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and Affiliates Present Coverage Match limited by state Law Listen to the heartbeat.

[Chevrolet Advertiser]

Chevy is called the heartbeat of America for a reason. With SUVs made to move with your rhythm, the versatile Equinox tackles your entire day. The spacious Traverse fits your crew and your whole weekend. And tracks bring style with value you can count on, all infused with tech that has your back. So your drive always hits the right chord. Chevrolet. Together. Let's drive.

[Mark R. Healy / Narrator]

The road of shadows created by mark r. Healy a beyond the dark production season 5 episode 7 proposal.

[Amber]

How are you doing there, Daniel? Managing okay?

[Daniel]

It's just a walk around the block, Amber.

[Amber]

Yeah, but you're breathing pretty hard right now.

[Daniel]

I've had better days, but I'll manage.

[Amber]

Do you want to take another break? There's a bench just over here.

[Daniel]

Motel's not too far away. I can make it.

[Amber]

Well, at least let me take that backpack for you.

[Daniel]

I'm not letting the axe out of my reach? Not for a second.

[Amber]

Okay, that's fine. But right now, I'm not even sure you'd have the strength to pull it out and lift it above your knees.

[Daniel]

Things aren't quite that bad.

[Amber]

I don't know. I'm worried about you.

[Daniel]

Let's talk about something else. Like which trails we're gonna try later today.

[Amber]

Daniel. Come on. Trails. You can barely make it around the block, let alone up those steep mountain paths.

[Daniel]

A couple hours rest. And.

[Amber]

You haven't improved after a couple of days of rest. In fact, you've gotten worse. So don't stand there and tell me you're going to be fine by this afternoon. We both know that's not gonna happen.

[Daniel]

What else are we supposed to do? Sit around in the motel twiddling our thumbs?

[Amber]

That's exactly what we're gonna do. You need time to recuperate.

[Daniel]

I can't believe this is happening right now when we were so close.

[Amber]

Listen, I understand your frustration only too well. I had something similar happen to me a few months ago, remember? I was sick. Could barely walk. Had to sleep most of the day. That annoyed the hell out of me. I hate. I hate feeling useless. But unfortunately, there's nothing we can do. Whatever this illness might be, we have to let it take its course. Besides, I. I think I need some time to gather my bearings again.

[Daniel]

Your bearings? What do you mean by that?

[Amber]

I don't know. It's weird somehow. I feel like things are starting to slip out of my grasp. The visions, they're. They're becoming less vivid, I suppose you could say.

[Daniel]

What about this place of stone you mentioned? Can you still see that?

[Amber]

Yeah. But it's weaker now. Like it's further away. I. I don't know. It's hard to explain.

[Daniel]

What do you think could be the reason for that?

[Amber]

I have no idea. Maybe it's because we haven't visited the mountain in a while. Or maybe I just need to tap into the ether again somehow to get. Give myself a boost.

[Daniel]

We could go back to Dragisa's den. If you think that would help.

[Amber]

I have a feeling the energy would have drained from there by now. The mountain. That is still our best bet, I think.

[Daniel]

All the more reason for us to get back up there as soon as we can.

[Amber]

We'll get there, I promise. Eventually. But for now, I think it's time we head back to our room. Come on. I'll race you. Take a seat, Daniel. I'll get the light switch. It's so damn dark in Here, with the curtains drawn.

[Ryvis]

I trust you had a relaxing war.

[Amber]

It's Rus.

[Ryvis]

No need for the axe. Daniel. I came here to talk, not to fight.

[Daniel]

Like hell you did.

[Ryvis]

Please close the door and take a seat. Let's be civil about this.

[Amber]

We know what you shadows are like. We've seen your tricks.

[Ryvis]

This is no trick. I've come with a proposal. One that I think will be of great benefit to both of us. If you'll take a moment to listen.

[Daniel]

Amber, I don't smell bloodlust.

[Amber]

Not yet. But as soon as our guard is down, he'll attack.

[Ryvis]

If my intention was to attack when your guard was down, I would have hidden behind the door or jumped at you the moment you stepped inside. But look at me. I'm just sitting here, waiting to talk.

[Daniel]

We have nothing to say to you.

[Ryvis]

You don't have to talk. Just listen. And I should warn you that time is wasting. No doubt someone in the neighborhood saw me passing through. The authorities may be on their way right now to investigate the latest appearance of the prowler. And I have no intention of getting mixed up in a situation like that. So please, close the door and let's get this over with.

[Daniel]

Do it, Amber. I've got the axe right here in case this fucker makes a move.

[Emergency Broadcast System Announcer]

Good.

[Ryvis]

That's more like it.

[Daniel]

All right, we're listening. Say what you have to say.

[Ryvis]

Let me begin by admitting that this is not a conversation I ever expected to have. Attempting to broker terms with a pair of Nostrama. It would have seemed inconceivable even a few mere days ago. But after much consideration, I believe this to be the best way forward. If you agree to my terms, we can both get what we want out of this situation.

[Amber]

The only thing we want is for you to die, along with Dragisa and the rest of your kin.

[Ryvis]

Dragisa? She's not part of my kin. Quite the opposite.

[Daniel]

So it's true. You're from another kin. That's why you were able to absorb those strikes from my axe.

[Ryvis]

Ah, you figured it out. Good for you. I must say, you seemed quite confused during our last meeting.

[Daniel]

I don't care what kin you're from. I'll find a way to take you down, no matter what.

[Ryvis]

Well, from the look in your eye, I have no doubt you'd try. Down to your last breath. And that brings me to the point of this discussion. This isn't really my fight.

[Amber]

Great. Then why don't you just leave? Walk out of Silverton right now and stay out.

[Ryvis]

It's not that simple. You see, I've been sent here on behalf of my kin to do this task. In return, Dragisa has agreed to return something very sacred. But only if I succeed.

[Daniel]

What is it?

[Ryvis]

We don't like each other much, Dragisa and I. In fact, her kin and mine have been fighting each other for a very long time now. Centuries, as it turns out. It's been a bitter struggle, and if anything, those long years have only deepened the hatred between the two sides.

[Amber]

So why the hell are you helping her?

[Ryvis]

As I said, they have something. Or should I say someone. During a recent skirmish, a brother of mine, Kurellen, was captured. He happens to be an esteemed member of my kin, and we would very much like to have him returned unharmed. I have been sent to bring him

[Daniel]

back, but Dragisa won't give him to you unless you kill Amber and me. Is that it?

[Ryvis]

I have two objectives. And, yes, the first is to kill you. That is the outcome that Dragisa wants most.

[Amber]

What's the second?

[Ryvis]

If, for whatever reason, I am unable to bring you down, I've been told that I must, at the very least prevent you from climbing my mount. Sunder, the mountain is sacred to Dragisa's kin. And she wants you kept as far away as possible.

[Amber]

They don't want me to find the Place of Stone. That's it, isn't it?

[Ryvis]

You know its name. Impressive. They told me you were a Seeker, but I didn't realize your reach was that extensive.

[Amber]

Seeker?

[Ryvis]

One who can navigate the ether and reach out through dreams and thoughts. Dragisa is concerned by your prowess. That's why she's taking such drastic measures. They are retreating from you, believe it or not. In fact, they intend to dismantle the very thing they hold most sacred in this town. The Place of Stone itself.

[Amber]

They're going to destroy it. Why?

[Ryvis]

The Aether flows strongly there. More strongly than almost anywhere else. Tragisa knows that if you can reach it, you'll have access to knowledge that no Nostroma should ever be allowed to possess.

[Daniel]

Running for their lives and trying to cover their tracks. What is the Place of Stone? What's its purpose?

[Ryvis]

It is sacred to their kin. Beyond that, I will not say. The point is, the abandonment of their sanctuary is already well underway. In a day, the ether will have dissipated. There will be nothing left for you to find.

[Amber]

So that's it. That's why my visions are starting to weaken.

[Ryvis]

Yes. And make no mistake, this was a momentous decision. For their kin to leave their inner sanctum like this. It was no trivial Matter. You've won a great victory by forcing their hand.

[Daniel]

But if Dragisa manages to escape, it'll all be for nothing.

[Ryvis]

No. As I said, this is a great victory.

[Amber]

So is that what this is all about? You just came here to waste our time and delay us? That way, we won't reach the place of stone in time.

[Ryvis]

Let me lay out my proposal in the clearest terms possible. I came to prevent a fight. If the three of us engage in the thing that Dragisa wants most, a battle to the death, it will be a very bad outcome for all of us.

[Daniel]

Because you'll be dead.

[Ryvis]

If you know anything about the relationship between Nostromo and the kin, you'll know that you cannot kill me. The toxins in your blood have made you lethal against Dragisa's kin, but not mine. However, that doesn't mean you can't hurt me. These wounds you gave me when we last met. They burn like nothing I've ever felt. And although they won't kill me, they will cause me pain. Pain for years to come. I have no intention of allowing you to add more scars, which you would surely do were we to come to blows again.

[Daniel]

So what are the terms of your proposal?

[Ryvis]

If you will agree to walk away from this fight, to take your things and leave Silverton, I will be able to fulfill one of my objectives. When Dragisa asks, I will tell her that we fought and that you were forced to flee.

[Amber]

You're asking us to give up any chance we have of finding the place of stone?

[Ryvis]

A temporary setback. In a few weeks or months, you can begin your hunt again. In time, you will find Dragisa once more.

[Amber]

But we'd have to start from scratch.

[Ryvis]

What is the alternative, Amber? You would have to face me in a fight you know you cannot win.

[Amber]

So you'd let us leave, just like that?

[Ryvis]

If Dragisa believes I forced you to run, that will be enough to earn my brother's release. Perhaps with just one other thing. A vial of your blood, Ember.

[Amber]

My blood? What are you talking about?

[Ryvis]

They want me to collect a sample. I could tell them I wounded you during the fight and was able to collect it as you struggled to get away.

[Amber]

Dragisa wants my blood? What the hell for?

[Ryvis]

You are both a seeker and the bearer of the malignant touch. Maybe they want to study you.

[Amber]

Malignant touch? Touch.

[Ryvis]

You've never heard that term before?

[Amber]

No. Oh, do you? Do you mean the ability I have to make shadows bleed with my bare hands?

[Ryvis]

That's the one. A truly hideous affliction, but impressive.

[Daniel]

Nonetheless, you're not taking her blood.

[Ryvis]

You can draw it yourself with a syringe.

[Daniel]

The answer is no.

[Amber]

Yeah, this sounds like bullshit, Ryvis. I don't know if I believe a word you've said. It's more likely you're just Dragisa's stooge, and she's put you up to the whole thing to trick us.

[Ryvis]

I would never bow before a wretch like Dragisa. I hate her. I despise her entire kin. And I would like nothing more than to see them all turn to cinders. Every last one. In fact, it is my fervent prayer that the two of you will see reason that you leave so that you can live to fight another day. Then, in time, draw your plans together so that you can return and crush them all.

[Amber]

You hate them that badly?

[Ryvis]

Dragisa's kin have caused my brothers and sisters much sorrow and heartache over the years. We almost had them once. Did you know that after many centuries back and forth, the tide had turned in our favor? In a land far away from here, over the seas, my kin sprang a dead, devastating attack, whittling down their numbers to just a scant few. We were closing in for the final kill when they somehow managed to slip through. They gave up the lands they had watched over all the flocks. They had nurtured everything, and fled across the sea. Their ship was battered by storms for weeks, her tall white sails torn to shreds. But they persevered. With their mother hidden away below decks, they completed their perilous journey and finally arrived here on the shores of this land.

[Amber]

So, wait, wait. Dragisa and her kin weren't originally from the United States?

[Ryvis]

No. When they arrived, they were weak and weary and few in number. But they found fertile ground here. There was not a single rival kin to be found across the entire land. That allowed them to spread quickly amongst the towns and cities, and in a matter of years, they were stronger than they had ever been before. In turn, the strength of their monarch grew, as did her hatred. Her memory is long, you see. She still remembers what my kin did to her, how close she came to annihilation. And so the war between her kin and mine rages on, even to this day, even from across the sea.

[Daniel]

It doesn't really matter what your motivations are. You're still helping Dragisa, and that means you're in our way.

[Ryvis]

I've already told you how to resolve this situation. Give me a vial of blood and then leave. That's all I ask.

[Amber]

If you hate Dragisa's kin, so much. Why don't you leave? Let us destroy them.

[Ryvis]

I can't leave. If I fail to ensure the safe return of my brother Kurellen, I will be thrown out of my own kin. Cast aside and left to wander the earth alone. Bereft of my mother's light. It's a death sentence. A slow and painful demise. And more than that, a disgrace like no other.

[Daniel]

If this mother of yours values her children so much, why would she risk sending you here in the first place?

[Ryvis]

Kurelan is one of our wilted. His life is worth far more than mine. Mother would gladly sacrifice me for just a chance of having him return home to her.

[Amber]

Doesn't sound like she's too fond of you. Rivus. Me?

[Ryvis]

Well, I have much to atone for. I have broken the laws of our kin more than once. And as such, I have fallen out of favor. This mission is my chance to restore my status within the Kin.

[Amber]

What laws did you break, exactly?

[Ryvis]

I have a strong appetite, you see. From time to time, I crossed beyond the boundaries of my own domain and feasted upon those who were not rightfully mine to take.

[Daniel]

You kill townspeople who belong to your brothers and sisters. Other shadows. Yes.

[Ryvis]

But that's not really relevant here, is it? The only thing that matters is the mission. And if I don't perform my duties here in Silverton, I will face exile. I will face death.

[Daniel]

So you won't leave?

[Ryvis]

I already told you. I can't.

[Daniel]

Then I think we're in a stalemate.

[Ryvis]

You're making this harder than it needs to be. You're stubborn. But if that's what you decide, then so be it.

[Daniel]

Come on, fucker. Bring it.

[Ryvis]

I'm standing up so I can leave. I'm going to give you more time to think about my proposal. I hope that, given some time to reflect, you'll see reason. But if you don't, you should know that if you come looking for me, I will do what I must.

[Amber]

What?

[Ryvis]

Whatever the cost. To me or to you. I will take this to the bitter end. And no matter how many times you strike me, I will not fall.

[Choice Hotels Advertiser]

I wrote a little song to remind you. Choice hotels get you more of the experiences you value.

[Ryvis]

The Cambria Hotel's got it all.

[Choice Hotels Advertiser]

A rooftop bar, have a ball, bring a date, your squad or even your mom.

[Amber]

Book [e-mail] thanks for supporting the Fable and Folly Network. Here's another show we know you'll love.

[Emergency Broadcast System Announcer]

This is the Emergency Broadcast System. A ballistic missile threat has been detected inbound to your area.

[Podcast Narrator]

Inspired by the real life false alarm that terrified Hawaii in 2018, incoming is a thrilling and hilarious cinematic podcast that explores how people react in their most critical hour.

[Ryvis]

Are you not hearing me?

[Chevrolet Advertiser]

There are missiles headed here right now.

[Amber]

Look, I just. I just want to be with you.

[Podcast Narrator]

Featuring incredible performances from Tracy Letts, Mary Lou Henner, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Paul Adelstein, and many, many others.

[Choice Hotels Advertiser]

Now there's going to be them that

[Amber]

live and them that don't.

[Podcast Narrator]

You're making a big mistake.

[Ryvis]

Is this all my blood?

[Podcast Narrator]

Maybe you're the leader of a doomsday cult, or you're a country superstar in 1954, or a gangster in witness protection. The question remains the same. What would you do if you only had 20 minutes until the missiles landed?

[Emergency Broadcast System Announcer]

This is not a test.

[Podcast Narrator]

What would you do with your last few minutes on Earth? Subscribe to Incoming now, before it's too late.

[Daniel]

What happened?

[Amber]

It's okay, Aa. It's okay, Daniel. Everything's fine. My back. You fell asleep, that's all. You've been out of it for a few hours now.

[Daniel]

Rivas. Has he.

[Amber]

Relax. He hasn't shown his face again since this morning. That's just the two of us here.

[Daniel]

Sorry. I shouldn't have dozed off like that.

[Amber]

It's fine. You needed the sleep. And besides, it's not like there's anything much happening here in the motel room. How about a coffee?

[Daniel]

Sure. Thanks.

[Amber]

I've been thinking about our meeting with Ryvis over the last few hours. Been thinking about it a lot.

[Daniel]

I thought we agreed we couldn't trust him.

[Amber]

Yeah, that was my initial reaction, but maybe there's more to it than that. Here, watch it. It's hot.

[Daniel]

Thanks. So, tell me what you're thinking.

[Amber]

Well, I guess if we boil the whole thing down to the simplest terms, we either play it safe and leave town like he suggested, or we stay and follow through.

[Daniel]

You're about to make a pros and cons list, aren't you?

[Amber]

Not this time. There's no need. Here's how I see it. If we leave, we play into Dragisa's hands. Right now, we've got these bastards running scared, and if we let them go, it gives them time to build up their defenses or come up with a new strategy. That's not what we want.

[Daniel]

Don't forget that whole thing with that blood sample of yours they want.

[Amber]

Yeah, that's creepy. What the fuck do they intend to do with it? It can't be anything good. So that option seems like a bad deal for us. We lose out Big time.

[Daniel]

And what about the other option? Ignoring Rivus's advice and going back to the mountain?

[Amber]

The upside, as I see it, is that we have a chance of reaching the Place of Stone. That would be huge if we could make it.

[Daniel]

But the downside is we'd have to go through Ryvis to reach it.

[Amber]

Yeah, about that. Do you think we could talk him around somehow? Persuade him to just step aside?

[Daniel]

You really think he'd do that?

[Amber]

Well, let's face it. His heart isn't in it. That much is obvious. He's only here because he's being forced to help. Maybe we could use that as an opening.

[Daniel]

I don't know, Amber. I believe him when he says he only has hatred for Dragisa. But he's not doing it for her. He's doing it for his own kin and to save himself from being exiled.

[Amber]

So if we can't reason with him, we have to use force. And Rodrik told us we can't kill him.

[Daniel]

Maybe not, but we can hurt him. He admitted as much himself. Said he was suffering from those wounds I gave him. Maybe if I can get enough blows in, he'll be forced to turn aside.

[Amber]

That's a definite possibility. But I'm still worried about your condition, Daniel. You're pale and you've clearly lost a lot of strength. I don't know if you're ready to go toe to toe with Ryvis just yet.

[Daniel]

I can still swing this axe just fine, no problem.

[Amber]

Yeah, I'm not exactly filled with confidence watching you lift that thing.

[Daniel]

Shit.

[Amber]

Did you say something?

[Daniel]

No, it's nothing. Just. Just give me a little more time. That's all I ask. Wait. Why do you have your boots on and your backpack is sitting there on the table, all ready to go? Were you about to leave?

[Amber]

Look, Daniel, I don't know if I can keep sitting here doing nothing. Every minute I feel the place of stone slipping further from my reach. As far as I'm concerned, we have to act now. Either we pack up our shit and get the hell out of Dodge, or we go back to the mountain. There's no point in waiting.

[Daniel]

How long do you think we have?

[Amber]

Ryves said Dragisa and her kin are already retreating. And I believe it. I feel them pulling back. If I wait another day, I could lose any chance I have of finding the place of stone before the ether drains away entirely. We could lose all the momentum we've built up over the last few months and end up back at square one.

[Daniel]

So it has to happen today. This afternoon.

[Amber]

That's the way it seems. But I don't want to force you into a situation you're not ready to face.

[Daniel]

You were preparing to head to the mountain by yourself, weren't you?

[Amber]

The thought did cross my mind. But from the look on your face, I guess I can forget about that. So do we play it safe and leave town?

[Daniel]

Hell, no. Let's get back to the mountain while there's still time.

[Amber]

Are you sure about that? There's no margin for error here, Daniel.

[Daniel]

We've got this, Amber. And like you said, we can't back off now. We'd lose everything we fought for all these months.

[Amber]

Well, if you think you're up to it.

[Daniel]

I am. Don't worry about it. I'll be fine. In fact, I guarantee that one way or another, I'm going to find a way to get us up that mountain. And nothing's going to stand in my way.

[Mark R. Healy / Narrator]

The Road of Shadows is created by by Mark R. Healy. Want to hear more stories just like this one? Head over to Patreon to hear other audio productions by Mark R. Healy. There you'll also find lots of bonus content, free stuff and ad free episodes that you can hear a week early. All of that and more is available now at patreon.com BeyondTheDark. You can also hear more at the roadofshadows.com the Road of Shadows stars Hamish Pljmars, Marta Da Silva, Liz Mori, Joseph Tweeter, Marlon Dance Hooey, Sarah Safarian, Nicholas Ewan and Thomas Barker. The Road of Shadows is a Beyond the Dark production.

[Amber]

Close your eyes. Exhale. Feel your body relax. And let go of whatever you're carrying today. Well, I'm letting. Letting go of the worry that I wouldn't get my new contacts in time for this class. I got them delivered free from 1-800-contacts. Oh, my gosh, they're so fast. And breathe. Oh, sorry. I almost couldn't breathe when I saw the discount they gave me on my first order. Oh, sorry. Namaste. Visit 1-800-contacts.com today to save on your first order. 1-800-contacts.

[Progressive Insurance Advertiser]

Best thing that's ever happened to you, financially.

[Ryvis]

Go easy.

[Choice Hotels Advertiser]

Sold my car on Carvana. Amazing offer, really.

[Progressive Insurance Advertiser]

I hit 200 on a scratcher.

[Choice Hotels Advertiser]

Did the scratcher come to your house and hand you a check?

[Progressive Insurance Advertiser]

No.

[Choice Hotels Advertiser]

How many scratchers did you hit to get that? I hit a button on Carvana.com once.

[Ryvis]

Okay, that's fair.

[Choice Hotels Advertiser]

It's like the lottery, except you always win.

[Progressive Insurance Advertiser]

Not like the lottery at all, actually.

[Choice Hotels Advertiser]

Exactly. Inexplicably good offers worth bragging about. Sell your car today on Carvana. Pick up. These may apply.