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