Gareth was quite nervous while George struggled to remain composed. Rowan furrowed his brows, ready to tackle whatever lay ahead. Therin and Ruben were visibly shaken by all that was unfolding. They appeared resigned to their fates.

Alaric simply smiled. He was eager to discover what would happen next. The elders all assumed their original positions once again.

“Come here, kids,” the count gestured for them to approach. As they gathered around the table, he exhaled deeply. “We didn’t want you kids entangled in this matter any further, but...” He reclined in his chair and combed his fingers through his hair. “You all are our best chance to catch this group in the act.”

Captain Farrow grumbled while crossing his arms over his chest. It appears the guard captain is displeased about involving Rowan in this ordeal. Or perhaps all of us.

“Kid,” Sir Baldwin fixed his gaze on Therin and continued, “You will proceed with the original plan, with a slight modification.” He raised a hand to prevent him from objecting. “You, Ruben, and Alaric’s group will go together to deliver the ingredients and obtain the bone-forging pills. None of your other friends will be involved further.”

Therin swallowed hard. “But I cannot procure the ingredients.”

“I will make an arrangement with the Argent Flask’s guild master to secure the necessary ingredients.”

He outlined the details of the plan and ensured everyone understood it thoroughly. The plan was to lure the dealer of the criminal network into a trap. The kids would feign delivering the ingredients, and once the transaction was completed, the city guards would swoop in to apprehend the dealer and any associates.

Unfortunately, Therin and Ruben alone could no longer be relied upon for this task.

And it would be too dangerous for just the two of them to approach the dealer. If they went as a group to complete the transaction, they would at least stand a chance against the dealer while the city guards arrived to intervene.

Moreover, it would appear less suspicious since the dealer had already met them as a group earlier. He had not specifically requested Therin or Ruben to come alone.

The concern, however, was that if the dealer was comfortable meeting so many kids, he was either extremely confident in his power or had accomplices at the meeting site.

Another complication was the unfamiliar faces of Alaric and his group. Still, it was a risk they would have to take. They could attribute it to Alaric’s group being interested in the bone-forging pills as well.

Alaric was proud of all of his friends. Although they were apprehensive about being part of the plan, they remained steadfast. Anything could go awry with such a plan, but they refused to back down.

“If you want to withdraw, now is the time,” the count said, addressing George and Gareth. They exchanged glances with Alaric and Rowan before nodding at each other. The message was clear — they would face this challenge together as a group. Both of them agreed.

“I will personally inform your parents of the details,” stated the count. “Only with their consent will you be allowed to join the plan.” They both agreed with a nod.

Alaric and Rowan already had permission from their fathers. For Therin and Ruben, it served as a form of punishment.

“Don’t worry, we won’t let anything happen to you kids,” Captain Farrow smirked. “I personally know the city guard captain Kael; he will be more than capable of protecting you all.”

Rowan visibly relaxed. “Well, if Uncle Kael is involved, I’m certain we’ll all be safe.”

It seemed he was well-acquainted with Captain Kael.

“Won’t you and Sir Baldwin be present during the stakeout?” asked George.

Sir Baldwin shook his head. “Captain Farrow is in charge of the estate guards. His duty is to safeguard the count’s estate, not the city.” He exhaled deeply.

“As for me, I cannot intervene directly in this matter either. The presence of this criminal group has been identified in multiple cities beyond the Count’s jurisdiction. Thus, the operation falls under the authority of the Imperial city guards.”

Noticing the kids’ disappointment, Sir Baldwin added, “Don’t worry. As Farrow mentioned, we have a good rapport with the city guards.” He scratched his cheek. “At least in this city.”

“Then why is my father so annoyed?” Rowan gestured toward Captain Farrow. “I recognize that look, Father. Don’t even try to deny it.”

Sir Baldwin and Captain Farrow exchanged glances. Captain Farrow merely grunted, unwilling to elaborate.

“Ahem...” The knight commander cleared his throat. “Your son is as astute as ever, Farrow.” He turned to Rowan and chuckled.

Rowan narrowed his eyes, while Alaric folded his arms across his chest.

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“And it seems to me you’re attempting to change the subject,” Alaric remarked with a grin.

After a brief pause, the count continued. “Well, there is a minor complication.” All the kids leaned in, eager to listen. “We suspect that this criminal network may be operating under a notorious cult.” As if that explained everything.

“What about it?” Alaric inquired.

“The Church has been pursuing this group for some time as well,” explained the count. “So, we must inform Bishop Drevon about this matter as well.”

“Why would that be an issue?” Gareth asked.

“It’s politics!” Sir Baldwin exclaimed, followed by a sigh. “The Church and its members are not obligated to obey the Count or any other noble. They answer only to their leaders, the Pontifex, and occasionally to Imperial commands.”

The knight commander elaborated on the complexities of the situation. Evidently, the Church had its own military force separate from the Imperial military and the nobles’ forces, enabling it to pursue its own agenda.

The Count and the other adults believed that once the Bishop was informed about the criminal group’s presence in the city, he would deploy the local city guards under the service of the Church - The City Watch of the Flame.

At that point, it would evolve into two separate task forces and operations. If the Count couldn’t negotiate an agreement with the Bishop, there was no chance for a joint task force. And, even that would further complicate the matters.

The involvement of two distinct forces in a single operation always risked miscommunication. And, for some reason, Captain Farrow detested them.

“I still maintain that kids shouldn’t participate in this operation if the Bishop doesn’t agree to collaborate with the City guards,” argued Captain Farrow.

“Come on, Farrow. You’re overthinking this. Bishop Drevon is a reasonable man.” He scratched his neck. “And the City Watch of the Flame are quite skilled.”

Captain Farrow barked a laugh. “Hah…skilled!” He crossed his arms over his chest.

“Well, would you prefer they work with an Inquisitor and their Black Flame Hunters?” the knight commander interjected.

Captain Farrow’s face twisted into a scowl. “If it were them, I wouldn’t let the kids anywhere near them,” he growled.

“Okay, enough, both of you,” the count calmly commanded as order returned to the room. He turned his gaze to the children and said, “That will be all for today. Return here at the same time tomorrow. We will update you with further details. You are all dismissed.”

Alaric and his friends left the count’s study, maintaining a noticeable distance from Therin and Ruben. Alaric observed both groups.

There is still a lingering tension between both groups. He combed his hair with his hand. First, we’ll have to solve this issue. Otherwise, this plan is doomed to fail.

***

“Can we really trust Therin and that other kid?” George muttered. Gareth nodded, clearly agreeing with his doubt. After all, their strained relations couldn’t be repaired overnight.

Rowan attempted to reason with them, but it wasn’t working. Alaric sighed. No, this isn’t working. This issue needs to be resolved now to avoid trouble in the future.

The kids stood in the training yard. Alaric’s group gathered on one side, while Therin and Ruben lingered in the opposite corner. They appeared embarrassed and kept their distance from their other friends.

Unfortunately, staying away wouldn't solve the issue.

“Guys,” Alaric called, drawing his friends’ attention. “We need to function as a team if this plan is going to succeed.”

“Well, how do you propose we fix this?” Rowan countered. “I’m tired of trying to explain it to these two.” He gestured at George and Gareth.

“This issue won’t be resolved unless Therin, and especially that stupid kid, apologize to us,” remarked Gareth. George nodded in agreement.

This is going to be tough but I have to try at least. Alaric motioned for silence and gestured for Therin and Ruben to come over.

Both of them looked startled. Therin pointed at himself as if asking if Alaric was really called for them over to their place. When Alaric smiled and waved, Therin hesitated before breaking into a small smile, only to quickly compose himself.

Ruben, on the other hand, appeared anxious and shook his head. Therin seized his hand and practically dragged him to their spot.

Alaric chuckled. Kids and their antics. It’s better for them to realize now that today’s enemies can become allies or even friends of tomorrow and vice-versa. He sighed. Before it’s too late.

As they approached, Gareth couldn’t resist making a remark. “Alaric, you know I don’t like chickens.” He addressed Alaric but cast a sidelong glance at Ruben. The jab was clearly aimed at Ruben, who had previously mocked their group with chicken sounds and flapping arms.

Rowan attempted to prevent Gareth from adding more cutting remarks, but Ruben had already caught it. He clenched his teeth, visibly embarrassed and ready to answer back.

Argh…you just had to kick things off with an insult. Alaric chuckled awkwardly, attempting to diffuse the tension. However, it was Therin who intervened to prevent his friend from escalating matters.

“I…we...I mean…” Therin rubbed the back of his neck.

“Yes, what do you have to say for yourself?” George demanded, crossing his arms over his chest.

Therin met each of their gazes and bowed deeply. “I’m sorry for my rude behavior that day. I just…” He paused, shaking his head before glancing at Ruben. When Ruben merely shrugged, Therin smacked him on the back. Ruben reluctantly offered his apology as well.

Well, that was unexpected. Alaric had assumed that Therin’s pride would prevent him from apologizing.

It seemed Alaric wasn’t the only one caught off guard. His friends were equally surprised, especially George.

“Don’t pretend to be sorry after all that,” George retorted. However, his tone had softened.

“No, really,” Therin pressed on. “I was just jea…” He coughed and glanced at Ruben, who eyed him suspiciously. “Well, everything happens for a reason, I suppose. If it weren’t for you, Ruben and I might have been kidnapped or worse.”

George grumbled. “I suppose I might have acted like a jerk too.” He narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing Therin for any trace of insincerity.

“Wait, what?” Gareth interjected. “You guys forgave him that easily?”

Rowan clapped him on the back. “Cut it out,” he muttered, furrowing his brow. “Don’t stir things up when everything’s going smoothly.”

Gareth scratched his head and made a face but didn’t argue.

“Hey, forgive and forget,” Alaric proclaimed. “That’s a great motto if you want peace of mind.”

All of them looked at Alaric as if he said something weird.

“What? What’s with those looks? Why are you staring at me like that?” Alaric asked, confused.

The kids collectively walked to the other side of the training yard, leaving Alaric behind. Alaric chuckled. They were all teasing him.

Looks like there was nothing to worry about after all. Alaric shrugged. And here I was, ready with a whole speech about the benefits of teamwork and the dangers of acting foolish. He trailed after the group.