Chapter 323: Finally Meeting Grand Duke Larson
"What is this? There are only two at the Marquess stage here. I thought more would come," one of the Duke-stage cultivators said. He was a platoon commander in the Larson family, his aura overbearing as if he was ready for action.
"Just kill them and move on to help the others," the other Duke-stage cultivator replied.
While they were speaking, their goons had already begun attacking Carol and her guardian. However, the assault was suddenly engulfed by shadows and lightning as, one by one, the Marquess-stage cultivators of the Larson family were slain by a shadowy figure that had appeared without warning.
"Assassins!" one of the Grand Duke-stage cultivators shouted, but before he could react further, an assassin had already appeared in front of him and slashed at him with a dagger. He tried to block the attack with his sword, but the dagger unleashed a bolt of lightning that struck him directly. The lightning shattered the middle-heaven-grade sword in his hand, leaving him defenseless.
The Grand Duke-stage cultivator was momentarily stunned and attempted to retreat, but it was already too late. With swift and precise movements, the assassin stabbed him in the head, killing him instantly.
By the time anyone could respond, the rest of the group was already dead. Another assassin stood silently beside one of the corpses. Without saying a word, they vanished into the shadows as if they had never been there, leaving only the lifeless bodies behind.
Carol watched the swift battle in amazement. Even though she had witnessed this kind of scene many times before, she was still impressed by the assassins’ effectiveness. She already knew of the renowned Thunderous Shadow Pavilion and felt fortunate to have their assistance. It was a relief that the pavilion was under Aldrian’s command, allowing him to aid her through this ordeal.
With the obstacles taken care of, Carol and her guardian continued toward the room where Grand Duke Larson was likely located. Each time cultivators from the Larson family attempted to stop them, the assassins swiftly eliminated them with surprise attacks. However, the maids and butlers who posed no threat were spared and left unharmed.
As they neared their destination, they encountered four elders at the high and peak King stage cultivation. The assassins lurking in the shadows seemed to hold back from attacking. These were King-stage cultivators—formidable opponents not easily subdued, even with the advantage of surprise. Moreover, the elders appeared aware of the assassins’ presence and refrained from attacking recklessly.