BETRAYAL HEARTS, RISING FLAMES

, casting wavering shadows that seemed to dance between rooftops and alleyways. It was the perfect cover for what Alaric an

him, the faces of those who had pledged their lives to the cause were taut with nervous anticipation. Ton

upply depot. We take what we can-arms, food, and the ledgers. We cripple their ability

a surge of determinat

as measured, every breath controlled. The city, so vibrant and alive by day, wa

e distraction. Moments later, the distant roar of a tavern brawl erupted, spilling into the streets-shout

depot's rear entrance. A lockpick clicked open th

ed as they moved quickly, gathering weapons and supplies. Then he spotted the ledgers-thick books c

laric froze, signaling the others to hide. The door cre

waited until the guard pass

ore guards away, but reinforcements were arriving fast. The

candlelight. Names, dates, and corrupt dealings filled th

nd caution. "This is only the beginning. Ri

rdened. "Then we

all faced, and the price of their fight. Yet, as the dawn approached, Alaric knew one thing