In the depths of the Black Dogs' stronghold, where the clamor of orders intertwined with the anguished cries of the enslaved, the young boy moved stealthily through the shadows, clutching two sealed envelopes. Under the dim glow of a solitary candle, he opened the first envelope and read:
> "We welcome the esteemed Border Guards during their forthcoming stay. We hope for a fruitful exchange of knowledge and arts to elevate both our sects."
He then opened the second envelope, revealing:
> "As agreed, the assassination will occur during the joint dinner. The target is 'The Guardian Dog,' one of their most formidable leaders. His presence hinders our expansion. His drink will be poisoned upon signal. Ensure your members do not interfere. After execution, phase two commences as planned."
With trembling hands, the boy swapped the contents of the envelopes and returned them to their original places. The following morning, he was jolted awake by the blaring of alarm bells echoing throughout the sect. He rushed outside to witness soldiers scrambling to their positions and residents seeking refuge. On the horizon, the Border Guards advanced, led by 'The Guardian Dog,' their eyes ablaze with fury.
Opposing them, 'The Dark Shadow' emerged from his stronghold, leading the Black Dogs' forces. The two armies clashed fiercely on the battlefield. From a distance, the boy watched, his heart pounding with a mix of fear and hope.
Seizing the chaos, the boy sprinted toward the sect's gate. Along the way, he encountered a group of slaves—three women, a man, and several children. The man inquired, "Are you attempting to escape?"
The boy nodded, prompting the man to point to a small cart. "Quick, get in!"
They all boarded the cart and set off toward the mountains. However, their escape was soon discovered by the dogs, who launched a pursuit. A projectile struck the cart, causing it to shatter and its occupants to be thrown to the ground.
As the boy lay dazed, he felt a firm grip pulling him. It was the man, holding onto a tree branch. "Hold on tight!" he urged.
The man dragged the boy and leaped into a nearby cave. They concealed themselves as the dogs passed overhead, believing their prey to be dead.
Breathing heavily, the boy turned to the man. "Thank you."
The man smiled. "I won't let them take you. You deserve freedom."
In that dark cave, the boy and the man began to plan their future, far from the cruelty of the Black Dogs, yearning for a life of liberty and dignity.