The Elite Families

The bartender's voice carried a hint of reverence, but also something else. Something cautious.

Arthur caught it immediately.

The Ashborne family—rulers of Mera. That meant Caldera wasn't just another city; it was a place where power dictated survival.

The bartender continued, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. "The Ashbornes govern everything. But they're not the only ones with power."

He leaned in slightly.

"There are four elite families. You'd do well to remember their names."

Arthur said nothing, waiting.

The bartender lifted one finger. "First, there's the Ashencroft family. Duke's house. Blood relatives of the Ashbornes.

Arthur raised an eyebrow. "Duke's house?"

The bartender nodded. "Yeah. Mera has two dukes, and the Ashencrofts hold one of those titles. Being blood-tied to the royal family makes them untouchable."