Three weeks later.

As your reputation grows, so does the number of men that your wolves, after vetting them, deem trustworthy enough to join them. Your wolves now total at forty men, and the number continues to rise.

Lysander, possessing a remarkable talent for subterfuge, has become your eyes within the city. He is your primary source for information on your targets, and he has yet to steer you wrong.

Kyra and Elisa, claiming to have been dispatched to investigate the rumors of the beast man, have been granted free reign of the city. They use their newfound authority primarily to steer any inquisitive soldiers away from you and your men, but the responsibilities of the aristocracy are many, and they frequently find themselves being dragged to parties and balls as honored guests.

Colter, for his part, has finally finished your mail shirt, and wearing it offers you a major advantage when in battle.

Cassandra still defies you, but for all her bluster, you can see her defense weakening. Soon she will submit, it is only a matter of time.

Xilyra, on the other hand, is made of iron. Despite consistent and extended use of the collar on her, she still refuses to obey you beyond the simplest tasks.

Catherine seems to have adjusted well to her life of servitude, and she seems to be genuinely happy to obey.

Atia, after weeks upon weeks of being used nightly by your men, seems to have somehow broken inside. She does as she is told, and her eyes are always glassy and unfocused, her gaze never leaving the ground for long.

As for you, you have hit five shipments of slaves destined for port in Arlheim. You know from your spies that the city is ablaze with gossip about your bestial persona, with some calling you a hero, and others painting you as a villain.

For now, your position is secure, and you have a stable routine to follow.

But that is about to change.