Choice

Cliff separated from the crowd with the other Scourges and headed toward the main building of the fortress city. There, they would hold a meeting to debrief the situation. The massive doors of the structure opened with a deep creak, revealing a dark and austere interior, lit only by the flickering glow of torches mounted on the stone walls. The atmosphere was heavy, charged with palpable tension, as if the very walls were holding their breath in anticipation of what was about to be discussed.

Hildanor, Mathilde, and the warrior with the hammer followed Cliff inside, their footsteps echoing on the stone floor. The other members of the Scourges, scattered throughout the hall, gathered around a large dark wooden table covered with maps, reports, and various objects. Glances were exchanged—some filled with respect, others with suspicion—but all were aware of the gravity of the situation.