Chapter 7: The Sable Order
As Astraeus prepared for the journey to face the beast, another danger loomed. His workshop had been quiet for days, but that peace was shattered when a shadow fell over him in the form of a figure cloaked in black.
Astraeus turned, his heart skipping a beat, sensing something was amiss. The figure moved with purpose, their eyes hidden beneath the folds of their hood.
"I've been watching you, Astraeus," the voice was low and smooth, carrying an unsettling weight of authority. "You've made remarkable progress. But you've also made a grave mistake."
Astraeus's eyes narrowed. He had suspected that his growing reputation might attract unwanted attention, but this? This felt different.
"Who are you?" he demanded.
The figure revealed a symbol on their cloak—a black rose surrounded by thorns.
"I am Korran, a member of the Sable Order. We have an interest in your work."
Astraeus's stomach sank. The Sable Order was a name whispered in fear—a clandestine group that sought to control magic, to manipulate power for their own purposes. They were ruthless, willing to do whatever it took to seize knowledge and maintain dominance.
"You've come to take my work?" Astraeus asked, already knowing the answer.
Korran smiled, a cold, calculating smile. "We are not here to steal, Astraeus. We are here to make you see reason. You have no idea what you are tampering with. The forces you are manipulating are beyond your understanding. The Sable Order has the resources to help you unlock your full potential. Together, we could reshape the world."
Astraeus stood his ground. "And what would you have me do? Join your Order?"
"Your knowledge is valuable, Astraeus. More than you know. We can help you refine your techniques. Help you master the forces you seek to control. All we ask in return is your loyalty."
Astraeus felt a cold, creeping dread as Korran's words echoed in his mind. He understood the threat behind the words. The Sable Order was offering power, but at a terrible cost. They would not allow him to pursue knowledge freely—they would control him, manipulate him, bend him to their will.
He clenched his fists. "I will never be a pawn in your game."
Korran's eyes glinted with something darker, but his smile remained unchanged. "We shall see, Astraeus. The choice will be yours, in the end."