Chapter 11: A Trap in the Shadows

Later that night, Valen sat alone in his study, staring at the map of his tower's territory. The flames of the fireplace flickered, casting long shadows across the room. His mind was already turning over plans to deal with Lucian's treachery, but as always, the Nobility skill kept his face calm, betraying nothing of the storm within.

A knock at the door broke his concentration. He turned toward the sound and called out, "Enter."

The door creaked open, and Marcel, one of his more loyal warlocks, stepped inside. He bowed deeply before speaking. "My Lord, I've come with the information you requested."

Valen nodded, gesturing for him to continue. Marcel had been investigating Lucian's movements for days, and Valen trusted him to be thorough.

"It's as you suspected," Marcel said, stepping closer to the desk. "Lucian has been meeting with members of the council in secret. He's promised them positions of power in exchange for their loyalty once you're... removed."

Valen's grip on the edge of the desk tightened, though his face remained as unreadable as ever. He had expected this. Lucian was making his move, and it was only a matter of time before he acted.

"Did you find out when they plan to strike?" Valen asked, his voice steady.

Marcel hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Yes, my Lord. They plan to make their move during the next council meeting, three days from now. Lucian intends to challenge your authority in front of the others, using their support to push you out."

Valen leaned back in his chair, considering his next move. Lucian thought he was clever, but he was still playing by the same rules as before, believing Valen would simply crumble under pressure. But Valen had learned from his time in this world. He wasn't the same weak mid-boss anymore.

"Very well," Valen said finally. "We'll let him think he's succeeded."

Marcel raised an eyebrow, confused. "My Lord?"

"Lucian will make his move during the meeting," Valen explained, his voice cold and calculating. "But I want you to ensure that the others—those still loyal to me—are prepared. When Lucian steps forward, we will be ready to counter his every move."

Marcel bowed deeply. "It will be done, my Lord."

Valen dismissed him with a nod, his mind already shifting to the next step in his plan. Lucian would learn, as so many had before, that betrayal carried a heavy price.