A Crimson Letter

[A Crimson Letter is a special invite from the High Elder Vindara Novellein, the head of the traders association, commonly referred to as the Black market]

Sunlight filtered through the narrow windows of the Branwen Craft Shop, casting warm beams across the wooden floor. Cian stood inside, glaring down at the sobbing Tolan, whose desperate hands clutched at his boots.

"A Crimson Letter?" Cian repeated, his tone sharp as his eyes fixed on the envelope. The intricate red seal, embossed with golden sigils, gleamed ominously in his hand. "So, the head of the Black Market wants to meet me. Why exactly?"

Tolan, still on his knees, kept his head bowed. "I believe she has something to offer you, Warrior."

Cian's frown deepened. "If you're here to push me into giving up the shop, you can forget it."

Tolan's voice cracked. "I swear, this has nothing to do with your shop."