The cobblestone street leading to the target was quiet, save for the synchronized march of boots. At the front walked Nicolas, flanked by Professor Daemar and Instructor Rauk. The Director of Velmora and one of its senior professors followed close behind, their expressions tight with anger. Seraphina observant, there to carry every detail back to King Alveron IV.
Arrayed behind them was their makeshift army: top students from Velmora Academy, Luceria Grand Academy, and the Imperial Academy of Valor. Weapons were ready, uniforms crisp, but the air around them was thick with anticipation.
They halted just short of the building—a high-end restaurant with polished wood signage, warm window light, and faint music. To the casual passerby, it was harmless. To them, it was the front for Torwan's betting empire and whatever lay hidden beneath.
Nicolas turned to face the students, his gaze sweeping over each row.
