Sixteen years later.
The quiet murmur of the brothel's usual chaos was shattered by the thunder of boots. The door burst open, and armored guards stormed inside, their swords gleaming in the candlelight.
"Everyone out! On your knees, now!" one knight bellowed, his voice a sharp command that sliced through the air.
Women screamed, their laughter and music replaced by shrill cries of terror.
"Get out of my way!" a guard snarled, shoving a courtesan to the ground as she scrambled to flee.
"Please! Don't hurt us!" another cried, clutching her chest as knights overturned furniture and tossed aside curtains in their search.
In the back room, Meloris halted. Her heart pounded in her chest, her mind racing as the sound of shouting and metal clashing grew louder.
She turned to Argider, who was sitting on the floor, wide-eyed with fear.
