The guards stood at the entrance of the City Lord's mansion, yawning as they struggled to stay awake.
The City Lord didn't have an official army, just a small squad responsible for his safety. Two of the guards at the front were strong, but they weren't mana users. One of them was dozing off when the sound of footsteps jolted him awake.
"Who's there?" one guard shouted, gripping his spear tightly. A shadowy figure leaped from the alley, landing gracefully before them.
His face was hidden behind a mask, and a dark cloak wrapped around his body. The guards pointed their spears at him, their hands shaking slightly.
The masked man pulled out a small golden-wrapped box, shimmering under the moonlight. "Deliver this to the City Lord," he said in a low voice.
"It contains something he truly desires." The guards exchanged confused glances, unsure if this was a gift or a trap.
