Swords Will

Chapter Six: Heist of the Lords Manor

The campsite had been transformed into a hub of activity, with crates and carts carefully loaded with their equipment and supplies. The group had made meticulous preparations to ensure that they could make a swift exit from Florence once the heist was successfully completed. They knew that time was of the essence, and they had to minimize any potential risks that could arise from their actions.

Erlan, Astrid, Raema, Finn, and Brutus moved about the camp, checking and double-checking that everything was in its place. They made sure their weapons were in top condition, their supplies were packed securely, and their horses were ready for a quick getaway.

Raema, as the leader, stood at the center of the activity, her gaze focused on the preparations. Her instructions were clear and concise, ensuring that everyone knew their role and the importance of timing in the upcoming heist.

Astrid's demeanor had returned to its usual aloofness, but her sharp eyes darted around, surveying the camp and its surroundings. She had an uncanny ability to detect potential threats and dangers, a skill that had saved them more than once.

Finn, who had an eye for detail and a knack for problem-solving, worked on finalizing the plans for the heist. He had a knack for assessing the unexpected and coming up with creative solutions on the spot.

Brutus, their silent but dependable member, was responsible for securing the horses and ensuring their readiness. He was a man of few words, but his loyalty to the group was unwavering.

Erlan, with a sense of anticipation building within him, couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. He had come a long way since he had joined the group, and his bond with Astrid and the others had deepened. They had become not only allies but a tightly-knit family, bound by a shared purpose.

As the hours passed, they continued to prepare, their focus sharpened by the knowledge that their next move would be a pivotal one. Their target, the grand manor of the enigmatic nobleman, held the key to uncovering the mysteries that surrounded them.

In the hours leading up to the heist, Astrid's aloofness became more pronounced. Erlan couldn't help but notice that she had distanced herself, not only from him but from the entire group. Every attempt he made to strike up a conversation with her was met with a curt response or a dismissive gesture. It was as if a wall had been erected between them, one that he couldn't quite understand.

Erlan, concerned about Astrid's sudden change in behavior, tried to find a moment to talk to her privately. He couldn't shake the feeling that there was something bothering her, and he wanted to offer support or at least understand what was going on. As the camp buzzed with activity, he finally found an opportunity to approach her when she was sitting alone by the fire.

He took a deep breath and settled beside her, the crackling flames casting shadows on their faces. "Astrid," he began, choosing his words carefully, "I've noticed you've been distant lately. Is there something on your mind? You know you can talk to me."

Astrid's eyes remained fixed on the fire, her voice devoid of its usual warmth. "Erlan, we have a heist to plan and execute. It's not the time for idle chitchat. We need to be focused and prepared."

Erlan could sense that there was more to her response than met the eye. He persisted, his concern deepening. "I understand the importance of the heist, Astrid. But we've always been a team, a family, and we've faced countless challenges together. If something's bothering you, I want to know. We can face it together."

Astrid's shoulders tensed, and she finally turned her gaze toward Erlan. Her usually vibrant eyes seemed clouded with a layer of uncertainty. "Erlan, it's not about the heist. It's about... us."