The village slept uneasily under a moonless sky, its inhabitants unaware of the fateful events unfolding in the darkness. Adrian moved with silent purpose, the shadow's commands echoing in his mind. Each step he took toward Alaric's quarters felt like a march toward his own doom, but the promises of power drove him forward.
As he approached Alaric's home, his resolve hardened. He reminded himself of the shadow's assurances: ultimate power, recognition, and the fulfillment of his deepest desires. Yet, the guilt gnawed at him, a constant reminder of the friend he was about to betray.
Adrian paused at the door, his heart pounding in his chest. The familiar warmth of Alaric's home felt like a cruel mockery of his intentions. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for what had to be done. He knocked softly, the sound barely audible in the still night.
Alaric opened the door, a look of concern crossing his face. "Adrian, what's going on? It's late."
