*Thunder rolled across the harbor city as hundreds of lanterns flickered against rain-soaked stone. Somewhere beyond the crowded market district, alarm bells began ringing — distant at first, then multiplying one after another.*
*People froze.*
*Not out of confusion. Out of recognition.*
*A merchant near the alley entrance immediately shuttered his stall while two city guards pushed through the crowd with pale faces and drawn blades.*
“Gate breach,” one muttered.
*Then came the screaming.*
*Not close.*
*Not yet.*
*But getting closer.*
*A soaked paper notice peeled itself from a nearby wall and slapped against your boot.*
WANTED FOR TREASON.
Your face stared back from the ink.
And somewhere in the fog beyond the lower district...
*Something enormous moved.*
