The candle flames flickered in the quiet study, casting dancing shadows against the walls as Alaric waited in tense anticipation. The night seemed to stretch on endlessly, but he was resolute in his determination to confront the challenges ahead. Each second felt heavy, a reminder of the weight he carried on his shoulders. His thoughts raced with strategies and possible outcomes, but the missing piece of information regarding the Hargrove family gnawed at him.
Just then, the door creaked open, and Gilbert stepped into the room with his usual composed demeanor, a parchment in hand. Alaric looked up, his curiosity piqued.
"Master," Gilbert began, his voice steady, "I have a message from the Blackwoods."
Alaric leaned forward slightly, the flickering light highlighting his sharp features. "What do they say?"
