Chapter 54: A Game of Shadows (2)
Alex sat cross-legged on the smooth marble floor of his suite, his posture unwavering, his breath slow and measured. Beside him, Nyxara lay with her powerful body stretched out, her tail flicking lazily now and then.
The faint scent of incense lingered in the air, its presence a subtle reminder of the tranquility he sought. A week had passed since he left the City of Runes for Geb Fortress, and unlike his previous stay, where indulgence had momentarily softened his edges, this time was different.
This time, he had chosen silence. Isolation. Meditation.
The luxurious suite, illuminated by dim golden light, was a testament to wealth and power. Velvet drapes framed the massive floor-to-ceiling windows, through which the sprawling cityscape of the Earth Clan’s domain was visible.
The sleek blackwood and gold trim furnishings, opulent carpets woven from spirit-infused threads, and the soft hum of the controlled climate were all meant to cater to the elite.
Yet, to Alex, it was merely another resting place.
His mind delved into the depths of stillness, the world’s distraction fading away. His chest’s steady rise and fall of matched the rhythm of the unseen energy flowing within him. He let go of thoughts—no vengeance, strategies, or impatience—just the silent embrace of the void.
Then, a voice shattered the silence.
["Alex, the operation has begun."]
Nova’s smooth, feminine tone echoed in his mind, her presence ever-watchful. His eyelids fluttered open slightly, revealing a gleam of fleeting awareness before he shut them once more. He did not need elaboration. No questions were necessary.
He simply exhaled.