Swordsmoke: Blackridge

An Underworld Original

Ghost follows the coordinates carved into Mitch’s back to Blackridge, a fortress buried in Ares's frozen mountains. The gates stand open. A trap. Marc, Norman, and Strider move inside while James, Ellie, and Mitch wait outside. James asks Ellie if she thinks they'll win. Ellie says she hopes they can disappear when this ends. James tells her he’ll face whatever comes, as long as she’s with him. Ellie quietly says leaving made her realize this is where she belongs. Inside, the three push until a chamber opens—turrets, guards, and Shepard. Clint in chains. Marc demands his release. Shepard says they need a lesson. Norman raises his gun, but Jack steps forward, aiming at Clint’s head. Shepard says he’ll free Clint—but wants Norman. Marc lunges—then collapses. Strider stands behind him, a traitor, bar in hand. He orders Norman forward. Shepard releases Clint. Strider hands Norman over. Marc screams as he and Clint are thrown outside. The doors seal. A jet lifts away. Norman is gone.

Story added by underworld_stories on April 5, 2026