The sun’s low glow, casting long shadows across the garden of Lord Blackthorn as he holds the head of a lily in his hand looking down on the flower's crimson luster. Exotic plants with iridescent leaves shimmered under its golden rays, and the pond at the center of the garden rippled gently, disturbed by the movements of the serpentine Leviathans that glided beneath its surface.
Julius followed his enigmatic host, Blackthorn, through this wonderland of nature and artistry. Julius had been hired by many clients over the years, but an elf with a request as mundane as Blackthorn's was a first. As they walked, Blackthorn's soft voice cut through the serene ambiance.
"You must understand, Julius, that this musician poses a threat not just to me, but to the delicate balance of this city," Blackthorn said, his silver eyes fixed on Julius.
Julius raised an eyebrow, his expression of surprise. "OH, And what kind of threat does a back alley musician pose to an esteemed noble like yourself?" a smirk dances along his lips. “The rival merchant I understood, Now what information do you have on the Tainted rose is to be my payment correct? Is that not why you dragged me out her?”
Blackthorn stopped before a towering blossom that seemed to pulse with a life of its own. "This musician, Vox, wields a song that has bewitched the hearts of the city's public. They are enamored, blinded by melodies that whisper promises of Magical freedom and the upheaval of the very laws that govern this city. He threatens to disrupt the peace that I have meticulously cultivated."
Julius listened, his mind racing. He was used to eliminating targets for political reasons or personal vendettas, but this request struck a different chord. Blackthorn sensed his hesitation and turned to face him, his expression serious yet strangely tranquil.
" Julius, I know why you sought me out, Your mother, Forna" Blackthorn said softly, his voice carrying an ancient wisdom. "I can offer you the name of your father, the one you've been searching for. Your mother gave you that message to hunt down the one man who would know of the tainted rose and its location."
Julius's breath caught in his throat. For years, the mystery of his father's identity had eluded him, a constant ache in his heart. Blackthorn's offer was tantalizing, a key to unlock the past he had long buried.
"In return," Blackthorn continued, his gaze piercing, "I ask for Vox's silence. End his song, and I will end your search. This hunt for the tainted rose, a poison to kill even the oldest of dragons. Was nothing more than a hint to lead you to me."
Julius wrestled with conflicting emotions. The weight of Blackthorn's words hung heavy in the air, mingling with the fragrant scent of the garden. Could he justify spilling blood for the promise of answers? Could he afford not to?
As if sensing his turmoil, Blackthorn placed a hand on Julius's shoulder, his touch surprisingly gentle. "Consider my offer, Julius. The choice is yours. You shall not leave empty handed today either way, but remember this garden and what it represents—balance. "
With those enigmatic words, Blackthorn turned and walked away, leaving Julius alone among the wonders of the garden. Julius stood in silence, his thoughts racing as he stared into the depths of the pond where the serpentine dragons swam, their scales shimmering like liquid silver in the fading light.