Erika the Warrior #1

This is the first part of Erika's story. There will probably be 3 parts.

Erika entered a dimly lit shop, her boots thudding against the worn floor. The merchant, a portly man with a receding hairline, greeted her enthusiastically.
"Ah, welcome! What can I do for you today?"
"I'm here about the quest posted on the noticeboard," Erika said firmly, her hand resting on her sword.
The merchant's eyes widened. "The mushrooms! Yes, they grow in the darkest recesses of a cave in the Eranthe Forest. They're used to brew a powerful healing elixir."
"How much are you offering?" Erika asked.
"Twenty gold pieces, and a vial of the elixir for yourself," the merchant said, rubbing his hands together greedily.
Erika considered the offer for a moment before nodding. "Deal," she said, extending her hand. The merchant grasped it eagerly, his grip firm and his smile wide, exposing a row of yellowed teeth.
The merchant handed Erika a map showing the route to the cave. As she headed towards the door to leave, he gave her a warning.
"Watch yourself out there. Heading that deep into the forest can be quite... perilous."
Erika glanced back at the merchant. "I can handle myself," she said curtly, before heading out.
As the door closed behind Erika, the merchant's smile twisted into a sneer. "We'll see about that, won't we?"
Erika ventured into the forest, feeling watched. She eventually found the cave entrance. A scream echoed from within, and she rushed in, her torch barely illuminating the winding passage.
A tripwire triggered a gas cloud, and Erika stumbled, her vision blurring. She fell to her knees, her sword slipping from her grasp. As darkness overtook her, she heard men approaching.