Finding Max (7)

The man's gaze hardened, his eyes turning into shards of steel as his voice, laced with a sense of urgency, cut through the air. "When are the Blackguards expected to arrive?"

Lyria glanced up. Her brows knitted together in a frown, a shadow of uncertainty passing over her eyes.

"In three days. I don't know why they're not already here."

"Perhaps they believe Erik Kay cannot escape the city, but they are mistaken. Of that I'm certain."

The man leaned back in his chair, the creaking sound echoing in the silence. His expression turned thoughtful, a wrinkle forming between his brows as he processed the information.

His fingers drummed on the wooden table, each tap echoing his growing concern. "So, they've asked us to keep the city closed and prevent anyone from leaving?"

Lyria nodded. "Yes, that's what they've told us to do."