Chapter 144: An Audience with the Collector
Nox looked at the black envelope in his hand, then at the hooded attendant. ’A private audience? Annoying. This is going to waste time.’
Vexia stepped forward, her hand resting on the hilt of her blade, and she placed herself between Nox and the attendant. "We will not be separated. We attend as a group, or we do not attend at all."
Elisa just grinned, cracking her knuckles. "A trap? Or an invitation to a private party? I say we go!"
The attendant did not even look at the two elves, and his hooded gaze remained fixed on Nox. "The Collector’s invitation is for the Candidate, Nox, alone. The offer is not a negotiation."
’So he knows my name, interesting.’ Nox looked at the spire, then back at his companions. Vexia was right, it was obviously a trap, but it was also an opportunity. This Collector person was a major player, and getting a direct line to him this early in the game was a huge advantage. Refusing would be the safe move, but safe was inefficient.
"It’s fine," Nox said, pushing past Vexia. "I’ll go. You guys wait here in line. If I’m not back in ten minutes, just assume I got a better offer and start the party without me."
Serian grabbed his arm. "Nox, no. It is too dangerous. We do not know what he is."
He looked at her hand on his arm, then met her gaze. "That’s the point. I’m going to find out."
He pulled his arm free and followed the attendant, leaving the three elves standing in the tense, silent line. The attendant led him away from the main entrance, toward a small, unmarked door at the base of the lighthouse.
’Liona, analysis on this guy.’
[Designation: Collector’s Attendant. Level: 85. Threat: High. Note: Subject is under the influence of a powerful geas, ensuring absolute loyalty.]
’Level 85 for a doorman? Okay, this Collector guy isn’t messing around.’