The next day…
The gates of Varos opened under a sky bleached grey by cold wind and gathering clouds. The city bustled in its upper circles, guards at their posts, merchants calling out wares, nobles cloaked in furs and indifference. But the moment we crossed into Genrik's estate, everything felt different.
The guards didn't question us.
They already knew our names.
Someone had clearly sent word of our visit ahead.
"Are we sure he doesn't suspect anything?" Lucas asked under his breath.
"Genrik might be many things," I replied, "but a mind-reader shouldn't be one of them."
Still, my fingers twitched near the hilt at my side. I didn't trust the quiet. I didn't trust the estate. And most of all, I didn't trust Genrik.
The main doors opened before we could knock.
And there he was.
Lord Genrik of Varos.
