Damien’s pov:
We went back into the streets before dawn.
The air felt like ice against my skin, but I didn't mind. We weren't out here to start a fight or announce ourselves. We were out here just to see what was left behind. I’ve learned that you find out the most about people when they think the danger has passed, when they finally let their guard down and take a breath.
This city sat right on the edge of the Black Tide’s territory. It always looked the same after a night of violence: eerie, heavy, and way too quiet. It felt like the buildings themselves were holding their breath, waiting for the next explosion. My men moved behind me like shadows. They were disciplined, keeping their weapons low and their eyes moving. Nobody said a word. They didn't need to ask why I wanted to go on
