Frank and Elara arrived at the gates of Veyruun, a neighboring city known for its formidable mercenary guilds and independent councils. The city's walls were tall, worn from decades of defending against raiders, and guards eyed them cautiously as they passed.
"This city is cautious," Frank muttered. "We'll need more than words to earn their trust."
Elara nodded, her staff held ready. "Then we show them we can fight—and survive."
THE MEETING WITH THE COUNCIL
Inside the city hall, a circle of council members and mercenary leaders awaited them. Frank took the lead, bowing slightly in respect.
"My name is Spenser Brown," he began. "I come from Aurenfall. Caelum Vire is consolidating power across our lands. If he is left unchecked, every town, every trade route, and every life in this region will fall under his control."
A stern-looking councilwoman spoke first. "And why should we trust you? Your town is small, and your claim—while alarming—could be exaggerated."
Frank's eyes met hers, unwavering. "Because I've fought him. And I've seen what he's capable of. But he has a weakness: he cannot handle chaos and unpredictability. Together, we can exploit that weakness before he tightens his grip."
A mercenary captain leaned forward. "And you bring proof?"
Frank gestured to Elara. "She survived his attacks alongside me. We've defended towns, outmaneuvered his agents, and we know his methods. We can show you."
FIRST ALLIED MISSION
The council agreed to a joint reconnaissance mission. Frank, Elara, and a small team of Veyruun mercenaries moved under the cover of night to intercept one of Caelum's supply convoys.
The streets were narrow, the air tense. Frank whispered instructions to the group, and Elara moved silently beside him, signaling traps and observing weak points.
When the convoy appeared, chaos was their weapon: barrels tipped, ropes snapped, and the supply wagons were blocked. Frank led the strike, while Elara disabled scouts attempting to flank them.
The mercenaries, initially skeptical, watched in awe as Frank and Elara executed the plan with precision. The convoy was captured with minimal loss, and critical supplies fell into their hands.
A BOND FORGED IN STRATEGY
After the mission, Frank and Elara sat atop a hill overlooking the city lights.
"You were incredible tonight," Frank said softly. "I couldn't have done it without you."
Elara smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Neither could you. We make a good team… more than just fighting together."
Frank's gaze lingered on her, heart heavy with emotion and determination. "We'll need that trust… for what's coming."
Somewhere far away, Caelum's eyes narrowed as he watched reports of the ambush. A slow, calculating smile spread across his face.
"They grow stronger together… but the game is far from over. Let's see how far their unity can carry them."