For nearly twenty years, the Iron Fang Mercenary Company had been one of the most recognizable armed organizations operating around the Royal Capital.
Its members had escorted wealthy merchants, guarded noble estates, hunted dangerous beasts, and participated in conflicts where ordinary soldiers were unwilling to intervene. At its height, the company employed hundreds of fighters and maintained profitable arrangements with some of the region's most influential commercial families.
Now, its headquarters stood almost deserted.
The courtyard that once echoed with the clashing of practice swords was silent. Empty weapon racks lined the training grounds, while abandoned equipment lay scattered near the barracks.
A handful of mercenaries remained near the entrance, discussing unpaid wages and the possibility of finding employment elsewhere.
Inside the commander's office, Gideon Marholt stared at a collection of contracts spread across his desk.
