A Blade in the Shadows

Lucian's grip on his dagger tightened. He could still feel the mana threads lingering in the air, waiting for his command. The sensation was foreign yet instinctive—as if this power had always been there, just waiting to be awakened.

The Overseer stood from their seat, their shadow stretching across the dimly lit room. "You continue to impress, Lucian." Their voice carried a mixture of amusement and curiosity.

Lucian said nothing. He was still calculating his next move.

The Overseer turned to the masked enforcers at their side. "Dispose of this failure."

Two figures stepped forward, grabbed the assassin's corpse, and dragged it away.

The Overseer's gaze returned to Lucian. "Your strength is growing. That much is clear. But raw power alone is meaningless without control."

Lucian remained silent. He wasn't foolish enough to think this display had earned him full trust. This was only the beginning.

The Overseer gestured to a servant standing by the wall. The man hurried forward, carrying a small black insignia.

"Take this." The Overseer tossed it to Lucian.

He caught it effortlessly, turning it over in his palm. The insignia bore an intricate emblem—a coiled serpent wrapped around a dagger.

"You are now officially one of us," the Overseer said. "Wear that, and doors will open to you."

Lucian studied the insignia. This was more than just a symbol—it was a key to something greater.

---

Seraphine's Warning

Later that night, Lucian stood on the rooftops of Velmora, the city stretching below him.

A familiar voice cut through the quiet. "I saw what you did in there."

Lucian turned. Seraphine.

She leaned against the railing, arms crossed. "You awakened something dangerous tonight."

Lucian met her gaze. "And?"

Seraphine's amber eyes flickered in the moonlight. "Power like that doesn't go unnoticed. The Overseer isn't the only one watching you now."

Lucian didn't respond. He had suspected as much.

Seraphine sighed. "I just hope you know what you're getting into."

Lucian glanced at his hand, where thin mana threads danced at his fingertips.

"I do," he said simply.

Seraphine stared at him for a moment longer, then turned. "Be careful, Lucian."

She vanished into the night.

Lucian exhaled, looking out over the city.

Velmora's underworld was shifting. And he was at the center of it.

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