Truce Turned Trap

The grand hall, lit by a dim chandelier, cast elongated shadows on the walls. The truce meeting was set to begin, and the tension was palpable. Ava, her face a mask of determination, stood next to Liam, who kept his gaze steady, every muscle in his body taut with anticipation.

"Stay alert," Liam whispered, his eyes scanning the room. "I don't trust this."

Ava nodded, her hand brushing the hilt of her concealed dagger. "Neither do I. But we need to play their game, at least for now."

The competitor, Viktor, entered with a smirk that could curdle milk. His entourage, equally sinister, spread out behind him, their eyes cold and calculating.

"Ava," Viktor purred, extending a hand. "How nice to see you again."

Ignoring his gesture, Ava replied coolly, "Let's get to business. We're here to discuss terms."