The dark alleyway twisted deeper into the underbelly of Valerius, far away from the bright magical lanterns of the main streets. The air grew damp, carrying the heavy stench of cheap wine, sweat, and the unmistakable metallic scent of blood.
The greasy merchant, Gribbs, led them to a set of heavy iron doors hidden beneath a crumbling stone archway. Two massive thugs with scarred faces and drawn swords stood guard. Gribbs flashed a series of complicated hand signals, and the guards grunted, pulling the heavy doors open.
"Right this way, my lady," Gribbs grinned, stepping inside.
Stephanie followed, her face completely hidden by her dark green hood. Revista walked practically glued to her back, his towering frame casting a long, terrifying shadow over the entrance, while Sylas trailed quietly behind them.
Inside, it wasn't just a hideout. It was a full-scale, underground counterfeit factory.
