Chapter 32: The Rise of the Underworld Lord

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The Shadowveil Syndicate

The Shadowveil Syndicate was a criminal empire spanning the Lower and Middle Realms, controlling assassinations, smuggling, and intelligence networks.

For years, they remained neutral—serving whoever paid the highest price.

Lucian, however, had no intention of buying their loyalty.

He would own them.

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A Test of Power

Lucian arrived at the Night Market, the Syndicate's hidden headquarters. Dozens of masked assassins guarded the perimeter, their auras sharp and deadly.

An informant led him to a candlelit chamber where the Seven Shadow Lords sat, their faces obscured by darkness.

"You seek control?" one of them sneered. "Prove your worth."

A massive bronze bell rang—signaling a death duel.

Lucian smirked. Just as expected.

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Dominance through Strength

The strongest assassin, Jiro Nightfang, stepped forward—a man known for killing sect elders in a single strike.

The duel began.

Jiro moved like a phantom, but Lucian's newly acquired Abyssal Phantom Step made him even faster.

Their blades clashed. Sparks flew. The room trembled under their sheer force.

But Lucian wasn't just fighting—he was toying with Jiro.

Then, in one swift movement, Lucian activated his new divine weapon—Twilight Serpent's Fang.

A single cut.

Jiro staggered back, his body convulsing. Poison had already spread.

Lucian stood over him. "You've lost."

The Shadow Lords were silent.

A moment later, they knelt in unison.

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The System's Reward

[Mission Completed: Seize control of the Shadowveil Syndicate]

+1,200 Villain Points

Reward: Night Emperor's Mantle (Grants Absolute Stealth in Shadows)

Lucian draped the Night Emperor's Mantle over his shoulders, feeling its power envelop him.

Now, he controlled the greatest underground force in the Middle Realm.

His influence was growing.

And the world had no idea what was coming.

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