Chapter 339: Assassins in Grafen (1) The Order
In the grand hall of the Ravalos Estate, deep within the neighboring territory of Grafen, the atmosphere was tense. Lord Hektor Ravalos, a man of considerable influence and ambition, sat at the head of a long, ornate table. His sharp features were partially hidden in the shadows, his eyes glinting with a mix of cunning and frustration. Before him stood three figures, shrouded in dark cloaks, their faces obscured by the hoods they wore.
"Grafen..." Hektor muttered, his voice laced with disdain as he drummed his fingers on the table. "It’s infuriating, the speed at which that backwater city has recovered. The reports say it was in ruins, ravaged by goblins and on the brink of collapse, yet now, it flourishes more than ever."
One of the figures stepped forward, his voice low and raspy. "The new baron, Lyan Arkanium Evocatore, is said to be the cause of this resurgence, my lord. He’s gained a reputation as a man of immense power and influence. The people revere him, and his strength is undeniable."
"Strength," Hektor scoffed, leaning back in his chair. "Strength alone doesn’t rebuild a city. There’s more at play here, something that’s eluded our spies thus far. I want to know what that is."
He paused, his gaze hardening as he studied the three assassins before him. "You are the best I have, skilled in the art of infiltration and subterfuge. Your mission is simple: infiltrate Grafen, uncover the secrets of their rapid recovery, and return with the information I need to bring that arrogant baron to his knees. Do not fail me."
The three assassins bowed in unison, their movements fluid and precise. "We live to serve," the leader of the trio replied, his voice filled with determination.
With a dismissive wave of his hand, Hektor sent them off, the heavy doors of the hall closing behind them with an ominous thud. As the silence settled back into the room, Hektor allowed a small, sinister smile to curve his lips. "Let’s see what secrets you’re hiding, Evocatore..."
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The night was dark, the moon hidden behind a thick layer of clouds as the three assassins approached the outskirts of Grafen. The leader, a man known only as Shade, signaled for them to halt. His companions, Wraith and Viper, obeyed without question, their senses attuned to the slightest sound or movement in the surrounding area.