Ruthless Rumors (1)

The sun had barely risen over the majestic spires of Arcanoria when the whispers began to slither through the city. Like a creeping fog, they snaked through every cobblestone street, slipping into every corner of the empire. No one knew who had started them, but by mid-morning, they were on the lips of every citizen.

In the bustling marketplace, where the scent of fresh bread and the sound of haggling filled the air, merchants exchanged more than just goods. "Did you hear?" one vendor whispered to another, her voice a conspiratorial murmur as her eyes darted to the crowd. "They say Lord Elian might be hiding something."

"Hiding what?" Another vendor asked, his curiosity piqued. He leaned in closer, though the shadows of suspicion already clouded his thoughts.