The victory at the trade hub was still fresh in Frank's mind, but there was no time to celebrate. Intelligence had come from scouts, merchants, and even some of Caelum's own deserters: the mastermind was already planning his next move.
Frank and Elara sat in a quiet room in Aurenfall's watchtower, maps and reports spread before them. Leo hovered nearby, exhausted but alert.
"Multiple cities are under his influence," Leo said. "He's not just targeting our town—he's consolidating power across the region. The next strike could come anywhere."
Frank leaned over the map, tracing paths and noting patterns. "He's predictable in one way: control. Every strike is planned, timed, precise. But he can't handle surprises—chaos forces hesitation."
Elara nodded. "So we continue to create unpredictability, split his attention, and disrupt his operations before he can finish them."
"Exactly," Frank said. "But he's clever. We need more than just guerrilla tactics. We need allies—people who can provide intelligence, manpower, and safe routes if he escalates."
SIGNS OF THE ENEMY
A letter arrived that night, delivered in a sealed envelope with an unfamiliar emblem. It was unsigned but carried a clear message:
You think you've won a battle, but the war is just beginning. The one who protects you now will not save you when the shadows fall.
Frank read it aloud, eyes narrowing. "He's testing fear now. Trying to unsettle us."
Elara's hand found his. "It won't work. We've faced fear before. And we've survived."
Frank squeezed her hand, grateful for her presence. She's no longer just my reason to fight… she's my strength beside me.
PREPARING FOR ALLIANCES
The next day, Frank and Elara rode toward a neighboring city known for its skilled mercenaries and independent council. They needed allies willing to oppose Caelum's growing influence.
On the road, Frank instructed Elara in reconnaissance and negotiation strategies, teaching her how to read situations, identify trustworthy contacts, and assess potential threats.
"You'll need these skills," Frank said. "Not just for me, but for yourself. Chaos favors the prepared."
Elara smiled faintly. "I'll be ready. I won't let him take what matters to us."
Frank nodded. "Good. Because this is only the beginning. The bigger the fight, the more we need each other—and the town."
A MASTERPIECE IN SHADOW
From a tower in the distance, Caelum observed reports of Frank and Elara's movements. His sharp eyes followed their path, every motion calculated.
"They grow stronger… together," he murmured. "I underestimated them. Perhaps it's time I reveal more of myself… let the game begin in earnest."
The storm of conflict was approaching. And both sides knew that standing tall was no longer enough—strategy, courage, and unity would decide the future.