Hunting for Shade (8)

Without a word, the group slipped inside, using the bookshelf as cover to conceal their presence.

They positioned themselves just outside the lit area, close enough to hear the conversation but hidden from view.

The voices were low, but carried a sense of urgency and importance.

"I didn't like the mayor's move," a man said. "We need him to know he shouldn't mess up with us."

"The problem lay elsewhere," a woman said. "We are losing control over the government because of the Band of Giants. If the mayor thinks we can't reach him because of them, then it is a problem."

From their concealed position behind the bookshelf, Erik and his team had a clear view of the gathering, though they themselves remained unseen.

"And how do we ensure our influence remains undetected while expanding our reach?" The man's keen eyes scanned the room.

"Can't you place more spies there?" a woman asked, turning to someone else.