The alley was damp with the lingering scent of rain, the moonlight barely slicing through the narrow space between buildings. Seraphina moved swiftly, her footsteps soundless against the cobblestone. Kaelen followed, his mind working through the implications of her involvement.
After several turns through winding streets, they emerged into a quieter district far from the Syndicate's eyes. Seraphina finally stopped in front of a nondescript door, knocking twice in a peculiar rhythm.
A latch shifted. The door creaked open just enough to reveal a wary pair of eyes.
"It's me," Seraphina said.
The door opened wider, and she stepped inside, motioning for Kaelen to follow.
The room was dimly lit by lanterns, the air thick with parchment, ink, and burning herbs. Maps and documents were strewn across a large table at the center. A hooded figure sat at the far end, scribbling hastily before looking up.
"Is this him?" the figure asked, voice smooth but laced with caution.
Seraphina nodded. "Kaelen Vorthron."
Kaelen crossed his arms. "Enough with the secrecy. If you have something to say, say it."
The hooded figure pulled back their cloak, revealing a man with sharp features and calculating eyes. "I am Dorian Vale. A former tactician of the Vorthron House."
Kaelen stiffened. His father's house. His past. "You knew my father?"
Dorian nodded. "I did. And if you're looking for the truth, you'll want to hear what I have to say."
Kaelen exchanged a glance with Seraphina before stepping forward. "I'm listening."
Dorian gestured to the documents on the table. "Your father wasn't just a noble. He was part of something far greater an order dedicated to controlling the Crimson Power, ensuring it remained sealed. But something changed. He started digging into secrets even the order feared. That's when the betrayals began."
Kaelen clenched his fists. "Elias Drennar."
Dorian's lips curled into a grim smile. "Exactly. Your father uncovered something Elias wanted something that could tip the balance of power in the Cursed Realm. And for that, he was silenced."
Kaelen's heart pounded. Every answer led to more questions.
Seraphina folded her arms. "We believe Elias is after you now because he thinks you have what your father was hiding."
Kaelen exhaled slowly. If Elias wanted something from him, it meant he had leverage. And if he had leverage, he had a way to strike back.
Dorian studied him. "So, Kaelen Vorthron. Are you willing to finish what your father started?"
Kaelen's lips curved into a smirk. "I don't plan to stop until Elias Drennar is buried."
To Be Continued…