A light knock dusted the door, followed by a note that slipped under the door.
To Cai,
The Syndicate requires your immediate presence. Meet us at the designated location—coordinates enclosed—tonight. We need to discuss the job you're working on for the King and Queen of Galas. This matter is of utmost importance and must be handled with the discretion and efficiency you've always provided.
Come alone. Do not draw attention.
- The Syndicate
I tuck the note away and press my ear to the door, listening for any footsteps. Silence. Carefully, I make my escape, stepping quietly to avoid making any sound. As I step outside, the starry night greets me, and I make my way to the hideout.
Closing the gap to the place I’m supposed to be, I arrive in a wealthy part of the city, surrounded by beautiful homes. A rich neighborhood, hmm. I lift my hand to knock on the door, but before I can, I’m yanked inside, pulled against a man’s chest as the door closes behind me.
“Ah, you must be Cai. It’s a pleasure to meet you, my name is Veldrin” he says, his voice comforting and soft. He steps back, leaving space between us.
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"Sir," I greet him, taking a moment to get a good look at him. He’s a slender drow with dusky, charcoal-gray skin and short, tousled silver hair. His intense violet eyes stand out against his chiseled face. Dressed in dark, practical clothing—tight-fitting leather armor and an elegant black cloak—a single, curved dagger is visible at his side.
“Come in, take a seat here. Let’s discuss what really brought you to Galas,” he says, his voice calm, though his gestures are exaggerated. I take my seat as he continues, “So, I see you’ve already been to the castle and met your group.” He sits next to me, resting his head in his hand. “I know you were offered 500 gold pieces, but working with us, I can ensure you’ll receive much more. How does 875 gold pieces sound to you, my dear?” His hand rests on my arm.
Don’t touch me, I think, feeling a chill down my spine, but I maintain a calm composure. I nod at him slowly, glancing at his hand on me before meeting his glowing eyes again. I stay silent.
“So, darling, you’ll be tasked with completing your current job with your group. Eliminate them, collect their earnings from the King and Queen, and tell them your team died on the mission. Then return here with the money, and I will pay you.” His voice is slightly chipper as I stare at him intensely.
“Alright, are we done here then?” I push myself up off my seat.
He grins, “Ah, yes, dear. Hope to see you soon.” He walks me to the door, which opens not to the outside neighborhood, but to my room in the castle. I step out, glancing back at the tall man. The room behind him is dark, with only his glowing eyes visible in the doorway. He slams the door shut, and the wind from it pushes my hair out of my face. Huh. Interesting.