Chapter 264 The Serpent's Bargain

• The alliance with the Heartlands marked a pivotal step in the fight against the Queen. Yet, Ariella and Kaelen both felt the weight of their bargain with Lord Theodric and the merchant council. The Heartlands' support came with strings attached, and their allies were proving as slippery as the shifting sands.
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• As the group prepared to leave Evermere, Sigrid voiced her concerns. “These merchant lords are wolves in fine clothing. They may have pledged their support, but don’t mistake that for loyalty. They’ll abandon us the moment it’s no longer profitable.”