Chapter 16: Secrets Beneath the surface

Tavara, Nightfall — Damien's Private Penthouse

The city's neon glow spilled through the floor-to-ceiling windows, painting Damien's study in streaks of blue and crimson. He sat behind his mahogany desk, the jade pendant cold in his palm.

The weight of secrets pressed on him. Nora's cultivation seal wasn't just a symbol—it was a declaration. A hidden war she carried, just like him.

His phone buzzed—a message from an unknown number.

"Meet me at the Azure Club. Midnight. Alone."

No signature. No explanation.

Damien's mind raced. The Azure Club was Tavara's most exclusive—and dangerous—nightspot, a known haunt for elite players in the underworld.

He hesitated, then sent a quick reply: "I'll be there."

Minutes later, the sleek black car slid to a stop outside the club's towering glass facade.

Inside, music throbbed, laughter floated, and power played its silent game.

Damien moved through the crowd, his eyes sharp. A woman at the bar caught his gaze—a stranger with ice in her stare and secrets in her smile.

She stepped forward. "You're playing a dangerous game, Mr. Blackthorn."

He raised an eyebrow. "And you are?"

"Call me Cassandra." Her voice was velvet, but her words cut deep. "I have information about Serpent X—and about Nora."

Damien's pulse quickened.

"How do I know I can trust you?"

She smiled—a dangerous curve. "You don't. But you'll have to. Because the enemies hunting you both are closer than you think."

Before he could ask more, the lights flickered—and an explosion rocked the building.

Chaos erupted.

Somewhere in the crowd, a whisper spread: "Serpent X is here."