Chapter 12: "Threads of Shadow"
Vermillion Reach was alive with tension. The streets buzzed with whispers of the Crimson Veil's activities, and the air felt heavier than usual. Jack moved through the crowd, his hood pulled low and his mind racing. The communication crystal from Professor Elara weighed heavily in his pocket, a constant reminder of the mysteries he needed to unravel.
He needed information, and he needed it fast. But where to start?
---
As he passed a dimly lit alley, a voice called out to him.
"You look like a man with questions."
Jack turned, his hand instinctively going to his dagger. A figure stepped out of the shadows, their face obscured by a hood and their movements unnervingly silent.
"Who's asking?" Jack said, his voice calm but wary.
The figure chuckled, a low, raspy sound. "Call me a friend. Or a business associate. Depends on how this conversation goes."
Jack activated the plug-in.
"Analyze the figure," he said under his breath.
The plug-in responded.
**[Target: Unknown.]**
**[Affiliation: Shattered Star (Probability: 89%).]**
**[Threat Level: Moderate.]**
**[Recommendation: Proceed with Caution.]]
Jack nodded to himself. The Shattered Star—a secretive guild of assassins and spies. This could be interesting.
"What do you want?" Jack asked.
The figure stepped closer, their voice dropping to a whisper. "I hear you've been asking about the Crimson Veil. I might have some information. For the right price."
Jack raised an eyebrow. "And what's the price?"
The figure smirked. "A favor. Nothing too complicated. Just a little… errand."
Jack activated the plug-in.
"Set a reminder," he said. "Don't agree to anything without more information."
**[Reminder Set: Don't Agree to Anything Without More Information.]**
**[Additional Note: Also, Don't Get Stabbed.]]
Jack smirked. "Solid advice."
---
The figure handed Jack a small scroll. "Meet me here tomorrow night. If you're interested."
Jack took the scroll, his mind already working through the possibilities. The Shattered Star was dangerous, but they might have the information he needed.
---
As he walked away, Jack activated the communication crystal. Professor Elara's voice came through, crisp and clear.
"Jack. What have you found?"
"Not much," Jack said. "But I might have a lead. The Shattered Star wants to make a deal."
Elara's tone turned serious. "Be careful. They're not to be trusted."
"Noted," Jack said. "But if they have information on the Crimson Veil, it might be worth the risk."
Elara sighed. "Just don't do anything reckless."
Jack smirked. "When have I ever done anything reckless?"
Elara's voice was dry. "I'll take that as a rhetorical question."
---
Later that night, Jack found himself in a quiet tavern, nursing a drink and going over the scroll. The meeting place was a rundown warehouse on the outskirts of the city. It was a trap—probably—but it was also an opportunity.
As he sat there, a man approached his table. He was tall and broad-shouldered, with the bearing of a soldier. His armor bore the emblem of the **Iron Dominion**, a powerful state known for its military might.
"Jack," the man said, his voice deep and commanding. "We need to talk."
Jack activated the plug-in.
"Analyze the man," he said under his breath.
The plug-in responded.
**[Target: Iron Dominion Representative.]**
**[Threat Level: Moderate.]**
**[Recommendation: Listen and Assess.]]
Jack gestured to the seat across from him. "Have a seat. But make it quick. I've got a busy night ahead."
The man sat down, his expression serious. "The Iron Dominion is aware of your activities. We're also aware of the Crimson Veil and the Obsidian Hand. We believe their collaboration poses a threat to the entire continent."
Jack raised an eyebrow. "And what does that have to do with me?"
The man leaned in, his voice low. "We want to offer you a deal. Work with us, and we'll provide you with the resources and information you need. Refuse, and… well, let's just say the Iron Dominion doesn't take kindly to loose ends."
Jack activated the plug-in.
"Set a reminder," he said. "Don't trust the Iron Dominion."
**[Reminder Set: Don't Trust the Iron Dominion.]**
**[Additional Note: Also, Don't Get Recruited.]]
Jack smirked. "Noted."