Whispers of Rebellion

Aldric's army arrived at Carston's estate under the cover of night.

The estate was heavily fortified. Thick stone walls, a gate reinforced with iron, and nearly two hundred mercenaries guarding the perimeter.

Carston had prepared for war.

But so had Aldric.

His forces numbered over a thousand.

And he had something Carston didn't—the loyalty of the people.

When dawn broke, Aldric rode forward, stopping just outside the gates.

Carston himself stood atop the walls, dressed in fine silk robes, a smug grin on his face.

"Aldric," Carston called out. "How kind of you to visit. I hope you're not here to take what isn't yours."

Aldric's voice was cold.

"I gave you a chance," he said. "You refused."