When Help Comes With Chains

Lyrasia stepped into the capital city of Edermont, exhaustion clinging to her limbs like a second skin.

The journey had been brutal—dust-covered roads, scarce food, and the constant worry of failure weighing on her shoulders.

But now, as she gazed at the sprawling city before her, she realized the real challenge had only just begun.

Towering stone buildings loomed over cobblestone streets, their balconies lined with silk banners bearing the emblems of noble houses.

Merchants cried out their wares—fine spices, rich fabrics, glimmering trinkets. The air was thick with the scent of roasted meat and sweat, a blend of wealth and struggle.

She took a deep breath. No distractions. The village needed food, and she had to secure it before the noble houses bled them dry with their so-called "aid."