The Last Blood Mage

First Base Attack

Berek gestured for Xander and Atheria to sit at a rugged wooden table cluttered with maps and documents. The resistance leader's expression was grave as he began to outline the current state of Mooncrest under Duke Marvin's rule.

"The situation is grim," Berek started, his voice low and steady. "Marvin has tightened his grip on the kingdom in every way imaginable. He's established checkpoints at all major routes leading into and out of the city. Merchants are heavily scrutinized, their goods often seized under the pretense of security. This has choked off many supplies that the city desperately needs."

He pointed to a map of the city, dotted with various marks. "Tax collectors roam the streets, imposing new levies at Marvin's whim. The taxes are backbreaking, designed to keep the populace in a perpetual state of poverty and dependence. He's squeezing the life out of Mooncrest, coin by coin."

Xander's jaw tightened as he listened, his hands clenching into fists. Atheria's eyes were col