In the grand halls of the Imperial Palace, Nyxpanther stood before Empress Nyssara, Emperor Varkel, and Chancellor Edric. The air was heavy with tension as they discussed the grim revelations surrounding Count Blackthorne and Viscount Ironfang.
"The illegal slave merchants are more powerful than we initially believed," Chancellor Edric began, his voice grave. "Their influence spreads across multiple empires, with deep-rooted ties to underground syndicates. They operate in secrecy, yet their reach extends even to noble houses."
Empress Nyssara's silver-black hair shimmered under the golden light of the chamber's chandeliers as she folded her hands atop the ornate table. "We suspected their existence for years, but we underestimated their ability to infiltrate even the highest ranks. If they have allies in Fenrath, then they may have access to military resources."
Nyxpanther's expression darkened. "Havvaris' estate in Fenrath may be compromised. If the merchants are embedded within the nobility, they may have spies even in the Imperial Palace."
Emperor Varkel clenched his jaw. "We must act with precision. If we move too recklessly, we risk exposing our intentions and allowing them to scatter before we can strike."
Chancellor Edric sighed. "We have intelligence that their primary stronghold lies beyond Fenrath's borders, but our agents have yet to return with detailed reports. There's a possibility they're being silenced before they can bring back valuable information."
Empress Nyssara's piercing gaze fell on Nyxpanther. "You and Havvaris have already dealt a heavy blow to them, but they will retaliate. We must be prepared for that."
Before Nyxpanther could respond, a royal messenger entered the chamber and knelt before them. "Your Majesty, Duke Havvaris has been summoned as per your orders."
Nyxpanther nodded, his thoughts now turning toward Melinoe and Havvaris, who were still at his mansion. He knew Havvaris would be reluctant to leave Melinoe's side, especially after what had happened days ago.
____
At Nyxpanther's estate, Melinoe enjoyed a rare moment of tranquility in the estate's lush garden. The servants had been accommodating, and Havvaris had been particularly attentive. It was a welcome change from the dangers she had faced so far.
A messenger arrived at the estate, requesting Havvaris' immediate presence at the palace. Though he was reluctant, duty called. Before leaving, he warned his right-hand man and Nyxpanther's trusted knights to never leave Melinoe alone under any circumstances. "Do not let her out of your sight," he ordered firmly. "Her safety is your highest priority."
Hours after Havvaris' departure, Melinoe walked among the blooming flowers, lost in thought. The cool breeze carried a sense of peace, but it was short-lived. A sinister presence emerged from the shadows—a figure clad in black robes, his face partially concealed by eerie scribes glowing with dark energy. The knights surrounding Melinoe immediately drew their weapons.
A slow, wicked smile spread across the stranger's lips. "So, this is the woman they so desperately protect." His voice was smooth yet laced with malice.
The knights formed a protective barrier around Melinoe, their weapons drawn and ready. "Identify yourself!" one of them demanded.
The man chuckled darkly. "No need. You won't live long enough to remember."
Without warning, he raised his hands, and a dark magic circle flared beneath Melinoe's feet. The ground trembled as the air crackled with raw energy. The knights lunged forward to grab her, but in the blink of an eye—
She vanished.
The knights stood frozen in horror, realizing they had failed to protect their charge.
____
Far from the estate, Melinoe was violently hurled onto the cold, unyielding stone. She gasped as the world spun around her. The dimly lit cavern she found herself in reeked of damp earth and something more sinister. The oppressive silence sent chills down her spine. She was alone.
Meanwhile, the dark witch who had abducted her staggered backward, coughing violently. Blood dribbled down his chin, the exertion of his spell taking a heavy toll. "Damn… them…" he rasped, his body trembling.
With his remaining strength, he activated another magic circle and teleported himself to a secluded chamber. He barely had time to steady himself before a sharp pain pierced his chest. His eyes widened in shock as he looked down at the dagger embedded in his heart.
A hooded figure stepped forward, twisting the blade mercilessly. "You served your purpose," the assassin murmured before watching the life drain from the dark witch's eyes.
The witch crumpled to the ground, his blood pooling beneath him.
In the silence that followed, the assassin turned away, disappearing into the shadows, leaving behind only the corpse of the one who had dared to cross the wrong people.