[One Week Later - Lumeria, Merchant District]
Marcus Vell's estate sat in the most expensive part of Lumeria—behind high walls, with manicured gardens visible through wrought-iron gates. The kind of place Marron would never have approached in her old life. The kind of place that reminded you exactly where you stood in the world's hierarchy.
She stood at those gates now, Aldric beside her, the Food Cart rolling quietly at her back. Inside the cart, the three tools were practically vibrating with anticipation—no fear, no suspicion, just desperate excitement at being close to their sibling. She could feel their energy radiating through the wood.
"This is a trap," she said for the third time that morning.
"You've said that," Aldric replied patiently. "Multiple times."
"Because it feels like one. Wealthy merchant, private estate, complete discretion? This is how people disappear."
