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Chapter 22: Darkness Within Light
As the three young warriors drifted through the domain of dreams and spirits, they were pulled back to the waking world by the blinding radiance of morning light. The sun, radiant and golden, cast a divine glow through the curtains of their rented inn, painting the walls in a palette of warmth. Bathed in that glow, they slowly rose—stretching, yawning, and blinking the remnants of sleep from their eyes.
They stepped outside and were stunned by the transformation. The city that was cloaked in silence and suspicion the night before now gleamed under the light of day. Cobblestone streets sparkled, market stalls bustled with early risers, and flowers bloomed in neatly arranged boxes on windowsills. Beauty, once hidden by the shroud of darkness, now revealed itself in full splendor.
Alexander reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a folded paper. "Since I'm the team leader appointed by the Dean," he announced, "he told me that we're to meet a man named Gustov Ellior, the City Lord who hired us to investigate recent disturbances. Our first stop should be his mansion."
The moment the words left Alexander's mouth, he was met with a burning glare. Both Marcus and Valen looked ready to incinerate him on the spot. The pressure in the room shifted, heavy and dangerous—as if a three-headed dragon had awoken.
"If you had spoken earlier," Marcus growled, eyes twitching with disbelief, "I wouldn't have had to spend a fortune on a room at this hotel!"
Valen, while also furious, seemed less concerned about the money. His ire stemmed from something deeper—comfort, security, perhaps even control. "As royalty, you haven't stepped outside your pampered shell once," Valen snapped. "And you expect the locals to just guide us with a smile? This world isn't built for the naïve. Follow me."
Without waiting for a reply, Valen strode off. The others followed, exchanging a glance that said, We're definitely not in control here.
Valen led them through the streets with uncanny certainty. His eyes scanned rooftops and towers until they landed on a tall, ancient clock tower. He turned into a narrow alley behind it—a dead end.
Reaching into his coat, Valen retrieved a small obsidian card inscribed with silver runes. He infused it with mana, and instantly, a ripple shimmered through the air. A doorway materialized in the solid wall. With a calm step, Valen walked through, motioning for the others to follow.
Inside, dim torches lit a spiraling staircase that led downward. At the bottom was a hall lined with bookshelves, parchments, magical artifacts, and relics. A man stood before them, his face hidden behind a silver-and-black mask. His aura was heavy, almost suffocating, but strangely respectful.
"It's nice to see you again, young master Veridian," the man said in a low, composed voice. "And it appears you've brought the last Alderwood and Crown Prince Alexander with you this time."
Marcus's eyes sharpened instantly. "How do you know who I am?" he demanded. "And if you know, then surely the imperial family knows too. If they do… why haven't they tried to kill me?"
The masked man remained calm. "There are many questions, young Alderwood, and not all can be answered freely. As for why the imperial family has left you alive... that is something you must uncover yourself—when you have the strength to face the truth."
He then turned his gaze to Alexander and Marcus. "Neither of you possess an access card. Let me explain. This is the Dark Pigeon Tower, a branch of the Evernight family, ruled by the Shadow Empress herself. We operate in every major city across Altara. Seek the tallest tower in any region, find the alley behind it, and activate a card with mana—only then will the door open."
He continued, "We deal in information. Trade knowledge for coin. Or coin for secrets. But beware… not all knowledge is kind to the soul."
Marcus blinked, stunned by the sheer scale and secrecy of this organization. A faint grin formed on his lips. "So you're telling me… I don't have to be broke again?"
The masked man chuckled softly. "If your information is valuable, you may leave here a very rich man."
Valen stepped forward. "Tell us what's been happening in this city. Rumors of disappearances, strange cult gatherings, and a shift in the mana flow. We were sent to investigate."
The man nodded. "Gustov Ellior has requested aid for a reason. But be warned—this city isn't what it seems. The darkness here runs deeper than shadows. Even we do not tread lightly."
Alexander's previously bright expression dulled slightly. "We'll handle it."
The masked man tilted his head. "Then may the shadows guide your light."
As they turned to leave, Marcus whispered to Valen, "Why didn't you tell me you had access to this?"
Valen replied, eyes ahead, "Because I don't trust easily."
Alexander, overhearing, added with a small smile, "Then maybe it's time you start."
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