Chapter 30: THE MERCHANT’S MASK
Arthur looked at Hawklight’s serious face. Even with his disguise on, he could feel the worry building in his stomach. "What do you mean ’not entirely human,’ Commander?"
Hawklight walked into the room, his scarred face showing concern as he looked at Arthur’s complete transformation. Even though he knew this was his prince, the old soldier seemed confused for a moment by how different Arthur looked.
"The latest news from Valentina’s contacts down south," Hawklight said, pulling out a sealed letter. "The Syndicate leaders have been using dark magic for decades. They do rituals that bind souls, steal people’s life essence, and transform themselves in forbidden ways. They’re not human anymore—they’re something that’s always hungry for more power."
[ABILITY ACTIVATED: Emotional Sensing]
[TARGET: Darien Hawklight]
[RESULTS: Concern 90%, Fear 65%, Respect 80%, Guilt 45%]
[ENERGY COST: -10 points]
[REMAINING ENERGY: 545/500]
Arthur could clearly read what the veteran was feeling. Hawklight didn’t get scared easily—whatever he’d learned must have really shaken him up.
"Show me," Arthur ordered, his disguised voice still carrying complete authority.
Valentina moved over to look at the letter as she quickly read through it. Her face went pale. "Arthur, this changes everything. The Syndicate doesn’t just capture powerful creatures—they feed off them."