"Alpha Sand is extorting his people. Unreasonable taxes. Land and houses seized under the excuse of debt. Many have lost their jobs because of projects that were never completed."
Richard clenched his jaw.
"There are suspicious people in this territory," Noah continued. "They are not from Sand Pack. They never appear openly, but they are often seen at night. Certain warehouses are heavily guarded."
Suspicious people. The words made my thoughts move faster.
"And you think these corruptus were brought by them?" Richard asked.
Noah nodded. "I am certain. Alpha Sand says nothing because he is being paid. The amount is large."
"I have already directed several enforcers to monitor their movements quietly," Noah added.
I knelt beside one of the covered bodies. I slowly pulled back the rough cloth.
The skin was pale gray. I placed my hand over the chest, letting the energy within me examine the body.
And the heart… was beating. Very slowly.
"They are not dead," I said quietly.
