Chapter 55: Chapter 55: Shadows in the South

The ink had barely dried on the coalition agreement when new reports began to reach Draven's ears—reports of growing unrest in the southern territories. The merchant lords had agreed to an alliance, but it quickly became clear that not everyone in their city-states supported this decision.

Draven sat in a newly established war room in Vhalar, poring over maps and reports with Aria, Kael, and Leandra. The atmosphere was tense, the air thick with the weight of their next decisions.

"We have word of a resistance forming in the southern territories," Kael said, his brow furrowed as he studied a map spread across the table. "Groups that are opposed to the coalition and are stirring up trouble among the populace."

Aria's expression was grim. "The merchant lords have rivals—those who would prefer the old ways to remain. They see this alliance as a threat to their power and influence."