Chapter 1264 A Ruse of Thieves

Chapter 1264 A Ruse of Thieves

Arthur stood firm, the sandstorm whipping around him. The sandmen, ethereal creatures formed from the very storm that shrouded them, worked in unison to pry the artifact from his grip. Despite their efforts, Arthur's strength proved unyielding, like an anchor in the midst of a raging sea.

Their whispers grew louder, more frantic, as dozens turned to hundreds, and then a thousand sandmen surrounded him. Each added its strength to the collective force, pulling with all their might. Arthur's face remained stoic, his stance unbroken, but finally, with a sudden twist, the artifact was ripped from his grasp.

The sandstorm howled louder as the sandmen vanished into its swirling embrace, taking the artifact with them. The wind began to settle, and the chaotic storm dissipated, leaving a stunned silence in its wake.

Diana's eyes widened in shock. "Arthur, they took it!"

Arthur's lips curled into a faint smile. "I let them."

"What? Why would you do that?" Her voice was a mix of confusion and frustration.

"Because I wanted to trace them," he replied, his calm demeanor contrasting sharply with the chaos that had just unfolded. "The artifact is infused with a tracking rune. It will lead us directly to their hideout."

Diana's expression softened as understanding dawned. "You planned this."

"Sometimes, the best way to catch a thief is to let them think they've won," Arthur said, his smile growing. "Now we know where they are."

They made their way back to the inn, the city around them gradually returning to its usual bustle as the sandstorm's remnants faded away. Alaric was waiting for them, lounging in a chair in the inn's common room with an air of practiced nonchalance.

"That was quite the show out there," Alaric remarked, his eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Did you manage to learn anything?"

"More than I expected," Arthur replied. "The sand thieves have the artifact now. I plan to trace it to their hideout."

Alaric raised an eyebrow. "Bold move. And us?"

"You and Diana should head to the library," Arthur instructed. "The Wisdom Core might hold crucial information about Deluge and Valeria. I'll handle the thieves."

Diana looked at him, concern etched on her face. "Are you sure? It could be dangerous."

Arthur helped her to her feet, intrigued by her reaction. "Why have you been trying to contact me?"

Sahira took a deep breath, steadying herself. "We are not mere thieves. We are a resistance, fighting against the Lord of Force. He commands an army of soulless humanoid constructs, powerful and relentless. They are designed to crush any opposition, and we are struggling to hold them back."

Arthur's eyes narrowed. "Why steal artifacts? How does that help your cause?"

"These artifacts contain magic and power that can help us. Some are weapons, others are tools. Each one brings us a step closer to having the strength needed to challenge the Lord of Force and protect our people," Sahira explained. "We hoped to gain your attention, to seek your aid. You are renowned for your mastery of runes and your strength. We believe you could tip the balance in our favor."

Arthur's mind raced as he considered her words. He had come here expecting to confront simple thieves, but instead, he had found a group of desperate warriors fighting for their freedom. The situation was far more complex than he had anticipated.

"You believe I can help you," Arthur said slowly, "but how do you know you can trust me?"

Sahira met his gaze, her eyes filled with determination. "We have studied your actions, your battles, and your principles. You fight for justice and the protection of those who cannot defend themselves. We have no other hope but to appeal to you."

Arthur considered her words. If he had not spied on them and heard their conversations, he would have a hard time believing her. However, a question still lingered on his mind.

"What makes you also steal regular items, not just artifacts? How would that aid your cause? You are stealing from the common people."

"Your question has two answers. If you just allow me show you, I would be happy to," said Sahira with a fiery gaze.

"Lead the way, but remember that any suspicion movements will be met with obliteration."

"We know you better than anyone, Lord Arthur," answered Sahira with a smile as she rose. "Kind to the innocent but ruthless to your enemies. That's what we aspire to be."

"Is stealing considered to be kindness now?"

"Then let's me give you the first answer to your question as we walk to our destination," chuckled Sahira while leading him through the tunnels.

As the two of them moved about, Sahira claimed that they rarely steal anything. Everything they take through the sandstorm was merely given to them by the people. It was a ruse to aid the rebellion without raising Sourna's suspicions.

When Arthur asked her about his artifact, she laughed and said they knew he wasn't a supporter of their cause because none of the commoners have artifacts.