The warmth that had filled the modest wooden hut only moments earlier vanished almost completely, replaced by a suffocating tension that seemed to settle into every corner of the room. The gentle crackling of the fireplace became the only sound daring enough to disturb the silence, while the flames cast restless shadows across the timber walls as though even the fire itself had sensed the sudden shift in atmosphere. Beyond the windows, the quiet town continued its peaceful evening without the slightest awareness that, inside one insignificant hut hidden among countless others, blades were about to decide whether this meeting would end in trust or bloodshed.
Luca remained motionless.
His twin sabers rested calmly before him, their polished edges reflecting the warm glow of the fire as his crimson eyes observed the two mercenaries without the slightest trace of impatience.
His question still lingered in the air.
"Friend... or foe?"
For a brief instant...
Neither man answered.
