NARRATOR

HOURS EARLIER, IN DUKE THESIO’S LANDS…

"Aldo, Gordon, and I will go inside to speak with the foreman. We’ll keep him distracted for as long as possible. This is your chance—don’t waste it."

One of the men sent by Elliot murmured beside the burly laborer.

Around a campfire, they ate fresh bread and sipped steaming hot chocolate. Only the best to bribe them—and to make them betray Duke Everhart’s side.

"Alright. Tomas and I will carry the crates we set aside earlier and take them to the designated spot. Don’t take too long—they’ll notice we’re missing right away," Aldo replied, taking a bite of his bread.

His sharp eyes constantly scanned the other laborers nearby, who were also chatting and eating before continuing to unload the goods.

Today was the day. They had been given the rare opportunity to access Thesio’s lands—they were on his side of the river.

The goal was to steal the crates from here because once they crossed the river, they were immediately transported far away,